Proposal to install Ferris wheel in Edinburgh's Princes Street Gardens during summer rejected by council

An application to install a Ferris wheel in Edinburgh city centre during the summer months has been rejected by councillors.

Unique Assembly, who operate Edinburgh’s Christmas markets, wanted to install the 46-metre Ferris wheel in Princes Street Gardens in June, with the structure to remain in place through to December.

The proposals added the structure would shut down for a brief time before reopening for the Christmas and New Year period.

It currently has planning consent for a fixed two-month period, from November 4 to January 4.

The firm said the extension of the fairground ride would have been “hugely popular”.

However, an event application lodged with City of Edinburgh Council has been rejected.

Rejecting the application, culture and communities convener Val Walker said the council had listened to feedback from community groups when making the decision.

She said: “Edinburgh is a world class visitor destination and we boast an increasingly attractive events calendar – but this must be balanced with the needs our residents and our duty to protect our beautiful parks and greenspaces.

“With that in mind, and having considered feedback from our stakeholders, we’ve agreed that this application should not proceed.”

Unique Assembly have been contacted for comment.