MINEHEAD seafront is set to have a new star attraction this summer – a new 100 ft high Observation Wheel – but not everyone is happy about it.


Minehead is set to have its very own version of the London Eye this summer, allowing people to see the town like never before.


However, the lack of the notice about the project has left a sour taste, with one local resident branding it a “disgrace”.


The commercially operated Observation Wheel has been secured in a joint venture between Minehead Events Group and Butlins.


The wheel, standing 33m (108ft) high, is due to operate from Saturday, July 23, for six to eight weeks from 10am until 8pm. Tickets will cost £5 for an adult, £4 for children and senior citizens and £15 for a family ticket.


“We are hoping to attract holidaymakers to the area to visit the wheel and help create a vibrant and enjoyable sea front for the summer season,” said Butlin’s resort director, Julian Highfield.


However, residents who live the seafront flats near the wheel are upset about a lack of consultation or notice, only receiving a letter on Monday, after construction was already well underway.


The letter states that because the wheel is a temporary installation, planning is not required.
“We apologise for not being able to give more advance information but the availability of the Observation Wheel was only confirmed at short notice,” the letter states.


At a meeting on Tuesday evening to explore possible plans for the seafront, around a dozen residents said they were unhappy with the lack of consultation regarding the wheel. 


One of the residents, Graham Wells, said: “I support everything about bringing in more tourism and economic opportunities to the seafront. However, I feel the 250 yard stretch from The Arcades up to the Butlins Roundabout should be treated differently because it is a residential area. 
“I think the way the consultation was conducted for this observation wheel was a disgrace.”


Later the same evening at Minehead Town Council, many councillors echoed the sentiment.


Mayor Jean Parbrook said: “We received documentation on the Friday, when Sue was on holiday, and it had to be returned by the Tuesday – which essentially meant we had one day for consultation.
“One month’s notice should be given but we were privileged to get one day. We have had many complaints and there are a lot of angry residents – it has caused complete confusion.
“As the town council we are responsible for our residents. However exciting the wheel is, that is not the point – the procedure in place is fine, it just has not been followed.”


Councillor Terry Venner added: “I actually don’t have a problem with the wheel itself, in fact in can’t wait to go on it but it is the lack of consultation, sending out letters to residents once it has already started to be put up is not good enough.”


Karen Mills, who sits on the Events Group and is lead member for Economic Regeneration and Tourism for West Somerset District Council, insisted the wheel had overwhelming support from the town. 


“The Minehead Events Group has been working hard to secure this sort of amazing attraction for Minehead,” Cllr Mills said.


“I am sure that it will draw visitors from far and wide to support the Minehead and local economy, it will be an additional reason to visit this fantastic part of West Somerset.


“Because it is only a license for use on council land, consultation with neighbours is not required for a temporary structure.”