Privacy anger over Ferris wheel

The wheel is 44m (144ft) tall and weighs 190 tonnes (187 tons)

People living near a giant Ferris wheel which is part of a Christmas attraction want Swansea Council to move it, claiming it has ruined their privacy.

Residents in the maritime area claim revellers can see into homes from the ride, which they say is just 20m (65ft) from some properties.

Objectors are due to address a meeting of the city council.

Council officers have said it would be too costly to move now, but the location should be reviewed next year.

Residents from Gloucester Place are presenting a petition to a meeting of the full council on Thursday.

Site visit

Organiser Colin Buckley said they were not opposed to the Waterfront Winterland attraction being held on land next to Maritime Museum.

It includes an ice rink and a variety of fair ground attractions as well as the 44m (144ft) high wheel.

But he said they were promised that after last year's event they would be consulted over the location of the wheel.

People on the rides can look into neighbouring homes, residents say

"We are not Victor Meldrews, but they have not taken our views into account," he added.

"All we are asking is for the Ferris wheel to be sited on a different part of the show ground so it would not intrude into our privacy."

He said he would invite councillors to visit his house so they could watch people riding up past his bedroom, toilet and living room windows.

Local councillor David Phillips said residents had been "very restrained" in their opposition and that he shared their "disappointment" over the lack of consultation this year.

In a report, council officers have said measures are in place to minimise litter and parking problems, but accept there are privacy issues.

In its first year the Waterfront Winterland attracted more than 100,000 visitors to the site.

The report states: "It is unlikely that the Waterfront Winterland would be financially viable without the Ferris wheel.

"It is recommended that in view of the comments received, a review of the site layout will be undertaken in relation to the 2008 project."

In a statement, the council said it had received a petition of 15 signatures requesting that a change of location for the Ferris Wheel is considered.

"Officers have met residents on site and taken their comments on board and have have recommended to council that a review of the positioning of the wheel in 2008 is carried out," the statement added.