London SE1 > News & Features > August 1999

Lift-off for BA London Eye

London's skyline will be dramatically changed once the British Airways London Eye (formerly the Millennium Wheel) is lifted into a vertical position this month. The giant wheel has been constructed on a series of temporary platforms across the river alongside Jubilee Gardens, with each segment being lifted into place by the giant Taklift 2 crane from Rotterdam, last seen in central London for the demolition of the old Blackfriars Railway Bridge. The wheel will be operational in time for 31 December's riverside Millennium celebrations with the first passengers being carried in late January 2000. Facilities for passengers are under construction in the corner of County Hall and will include a coffee bar run by Costa Coffee.

The lifting operation will last at least 24 hours and is likely to take place during the week commencing Monday 30 August.