Brighton wheel opens despite complaints

Developers hope the Brighton wheel will attract 250,000 visitors a year

A Ferris wheel has opened on Brighton seafront, despite complaints it ruins a conservation area.

The 150ft (45m) wheel, which is just east of Brighton Pier on Madeira Drive, has 36 gondolas and was shipped in from South Africa.

Some residents have complained about the wheel's location in a conservation area near listed buildings.

But supporters claim the £6m wheel will attract 250,000 visitors a year to the seaside town and create 30 jobs.

Developers hope the Brighton wheel will emulate the success of the London Eye.

The Eye was originally a temporary structure, but has now been in place for more than 10 years.