Giant Dublin wheel gives bird's-eye view

A 60-metre high observation wheel was unveiled this morning in Dublin by developer Harry Crosbie.

The 350-ton Wheel of Dublin, next to the O2 in Dublin’s Docklands, is nearing completion and will be open to visitors from Saturday morning, Mr Crosbie said.

With 42 enclosed capsules, the wheel will have a capacity of 336, with each person paying €9 for the 13-minute trip.

Approximately half the height of the London Eye, it will offer 360 degree views of the capital and its coastline from the top.

Made in the Netherlands, it will be operated by World Tourist Attractions and will be wheelchair accessible.

Mr Crosbie said the views from the top of the wheel would be unparalleled and it would help draw visitors to Dublin down to the Point Village. Development of the village had been slower than originally planned because of the recession, he said. It had been “incredibly difficult” but they had managed to keep going because they did not owe too much money.

“We hope the wheel will be a great attraction for the summer,” he said.