The Worthing Observation Wheel Rolls Into Town Once More!

Worthing's sea-front is set to see the 46-metre-high tourist attraction again this summer, and construction begins a few days from today (June 26).

With the government announcing restrictions for open air attractions will soon be lifted, the private operator de Koning Leisure Ltd will start erecting the wheel on the seafront opposite Montague Place from Monday (June 29).

That's according to Worthing Borough Council, which understands construction is set to take seven days.

A section of the promenade is expected to be temporarily closed or partially narrowed to allow the specialist team to safely install the structure.

Staff said the building work will mean the WOW will start turning again in just over a week.

As before, it's set to offer visitors the chance to take their place in a pod to enjoy unparalleled views of the town, the South Downs and the English Channel from 46 metres up in the air.

The operator has pledged to ensure strict social distancing measures and regular cleaning of communal areas are in place to ensure the attraction remains safe for all visitors.

Worthing Borough Council, which is responsible for the seafront, welcomed the news and hoped it would act as a catalyst to bring people safely back into the town centre to boost local businesses.

Cllr Kevin Jenkins, Worthing Borough Council's Executive Member for Regeneration, said:

"The WOW was undoubtedly a huge hit last year, becoming a landmark which attracted tens of thousands of visitors to the town and helped bring money into the local economy, as well as creating an impromptu photography competition between local residents and enthusiasts alike.

"While times have changed, the attraction of heading to the seafront and going on a large observation wheel remains.

"Obviously there will be a little bit of inconvenience as the WOW is constructed in the next week or so.

"We ask for patience during this time, as a section of the prom will need to be closed or narrowed to allow this excellent addition to the seafront to be installed for the summer."

The Council entered into a three-year lease arrangement with de Koning Leisure Ltd last year. This allows the WOW to operate for a six to nine month period between April and October before it is dismantled for the winter. 

More than 40,000 people went for a ride on the attraction last year when it operated from July through to October.

The Council continues to incur minimal costs for bringing the WOW to town with de Koning paying for all construction and operating costs as well as assuming all trading risk.

For a full FAQ on the WOW, which includes details on ticketing and installation, visit: www.adur-worthing.gov.uk/wow/.