Brighton Wheel could re-open under new council plans

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The Brighton Wheel could return to the city's seafront a decade after it was dismantled under plans set to be considered by councillors next month.

Brighton and Hove City Council's Cabinet will decide on September 17 whether to award a 25-year lease to the business behind Brighton Zip and Daltons Venue to operate the attraction on its original site on Madeira Drive.

The wheel first opened in 2011 and became a popular feature of the seafront before being removed in 2016 when its lease expired.

The attraction was removed in 2016 after its lease expired amid the development of the Brighton i360 further along the seafront.

If approved, the wheel would be built on its previous location while Brighton Zip and the existing café would continue to operate as normal.

Councillor David McGregor, the city council's cabinet member for economy, culture, heritage and tourism, said the attraction would help bring new life to the area.

He said: “Brighton became Brighton because people came here to have fun by the sea. That’s part of our identity, and we should be ambitious about what a great seaside city looks like for the next generation.

"Bringing the Wheel back isn't about looking backwards.

"It's about taking something people loved and making it part of the next phase of our seafront, as we regenerate Madeira Drive and bring new energy to the east of the city."

“We want Brighton and Hove to be a place where everyone can have a brilliant day out, and the Wheel would add another reason to come here, stay longer and enjoy everything this part of the city has to offer.”

Jeffrey Sanders, Brighton Zip and Daltons owner, with Councillor David McGregor, Cabinet member for Economy, Culture, Heritage and Tourism. (Image: Brighton & Hove City Council)

The wheel's prospective operators say they have invested more than £1.3 million in the site, including the construction of the zip wire attraction and structural works .

Jeffrey Sanders, owner of Brighton Zip and music venue Daltons Bar on Madeira Drive, said: "We believe the Brighton Wheel can once again become a much-loved part of Brighton's seafront, bringing families and visitors to Madeira Drive, supporting neighbouring businesses and complementing the fantastic attractions already here."

Under the proposed agreement, the company would be responsible for all operational and maintenance costs, while the council would receive a guaranteed commercial rent throughout the lease.

If councillors approve the lease, the operators will then submit a planning application and hope to have the Brighton Wheel open by next summer.

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