New York is the wheel deal

THE world’s largest ferris wheel is being built on New York’s Staten Island.

At 625ft, it will dwarf the London Eye, Singapore Flyer and the new wheel planned for Las Vegas Strip.

Mayor Michael R Bloomberg  said: “The New York Wheel will be an attraction unlike any other in New York City – even unlike any other on the planet.

“It will offer unparalleled and breathtaking views, and is sure to become one of the premier attractions in New York City.”

He unveiled the wheel as part of a massive facelift of Staten Island’s waterfront including 1,000 designer outlet shops and a 200-room hotel.

The New York Wheel will be 84 feet higher than the Singapore Flyer, the current highest wheel at 541ft. Las Vegas had planned to beat that with the 550ft High Roller. The London Eye is a mere 443ft.

The new American attraction will have 36 capsules, each carrying 40 passengers and is expected to attract 30,000 riders a day during peak season and 4.5 million a year.

Construction is expected to begin in early 2014 and completed by the end of the following year.