LAMBETH VOTES TO KEEP THE EYE

24 July 2002

Lambeth councillors (England) last night (July 23rd 2002) voted unanimously to grant the British Airways London Eye permanent planning permission on its South Bank site, opposite the Houses of Parliament. Existing planning permission was due to expire in March 2005.

David Marks, founding director, welcoming Lambeth’s decision said, "We are delighted that the London Eye has been such a success, and that this has been so widely accepted and acknowledged. It has already become an icon and today’s decision means it can now be a permanent landmark for our country. This is a great day for London and Britain."

Cll Peter Truesdale, Leader of Lambeth Council, said, "The Eye has proved vastly popular with Lambeth residents, Londoners and tourists alike. Our borough is proud to host this international attraction. The council welcomes the London Eye Company’s commitment to helping Lambeth tackle the issues of illegal trading, crime, litter and coach management in the surrounding area."

Since it opened in March 2000, the 450ft high London Eye – the world’s biggest observation wheel – has exceeded all visitor projections. It has attracted over 8.5 million visitors and become a symbol for both London – and Britain – around the world. Earlier this month the London Eye attracted a record of nearly 23,000 visitors in one day.