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'Whey Aye' wheel plans for Newcastle quayside

World Wheel Company Artist's impression of the "Whey Aye"World Wheel Company
A giant LED digital screen would display social media content and advertising

Plans to build Europe's biggest observation wheel on the banks of the River Tyne in Newcastle have been revealed.

Dubbed the "Whey Aye", the 140-metre structure would be taller than the London Eye and feature a LED screen.

It would offer 30-minute "flights" and could accommodate more than 800,000 visitors in its first year.

World Wheel Company said it would be submitting a planning application later this year.

World Wheel Company The height of the "Whey Aye" in comparison to other landmarksWorld Wheel Company
The height of the "Whey Aye" in comparison to other landmarks

The wheel, on the site of the former Spillers' Flour Mill on Spillers Wharf , which was demolished in 2011, would sit alongside other proposed visitor attractions including a multi-purpose play and sports complex.

There would also be a "Giants of the North Experience" featuring interactive technology and "hailing the achievements of the region's famous creative and sporting individuals".

Graeme Peackock Artist's impression of the "Whey Aye"Graeme Peackock
The observation wheel would be taller than the London Eye

Phil Lynagh, chief executive officer of World Wheel Company's Newcastle operation, said: "This is without doubt one of the most exciting investment and regeneration projects in the UK, if not the world.

"It will also further enhance the North East's global reputation for technological and industrial innovation whilst celebrating Tyneside's heritage and supporting its future."

A spokesperson for Newcastle City Council said: "This is an exciting and ambitious project which could create hundreds of jobs for local people, bringing further private investment into the city.

"We look forward to seeing further details as the project develops."