Big wheel to keep on turning?

The wheel - owned by Great City Attractions - is currently based in the middle of Belfast.

But the 60metre tall wheel will close for business on April 11 with GCA intent on leaving the city.

Since its arrival in Northern Ireland in 2007 the attraction has stirred debate not least amongst Titanic enthusiasts who were unhappy that it partly overshadowed a memorial to the doomed boat.

Now local SDLP councillor Mark H. Durkan is calling for the GCA structure to be relocated to the North West.

He said: "The benefits this would bring to Derry are huge for both businesses and the people of the city and it would be particularly timely given our bid for the City of Culture.

"The wheel could enhance what is already a wonderful tourism product: Derry has many spectacular buildings, historical city walls and is located on the picturesque River Foyle.

"Obviously cost will be a major factor in the success of this venture. I will be meeting with Derry Council officers and others charged with the development of tourism in the North-West region with a view to bringing this tourist attraction to Derry."