The London Eye, also known as the Millennium Wheel, is one of the most iconic landmarks in London. This giant Ferris wheel has become a popular tourist attraction since it was opened in 2000.
But have you ever wondered how long it took to build this impressive structure? Let’s dive into the history and construction of the London Eye.
The Idea Behind the London Eye
The idea for the London Eye was first proposed by two architects, David Marks and Julia Barfield, in 1993. They wanted to create a unique landmark that would celebrate the new millennium and symbolize the turning of time.
Their initial plan was to build a 120-meter high tower with observation decks. However, this idea was rejected due to its potential impact on historic views of London.
The Construction Process
After several design iterations, Marks and Barfield came up with a new concept – a giant Ferris wheel that would provide panoramic views of London. The project was approved by British Airways and several other investors, and construction began in 1998.
The construction of the London Eye was a massive undertaking that involved hundreds of workers and engineers. The wheel stands at 135 meters tall and has a diameter of 120 meters – making it one of the largest Ferris wheels in the world.
To construct the wheel, workers had to excavate deep trenches to create foundations for the support towers. The steel components were then transported from factories across Europe and assembled on-site using cranes.
Challenges Faced During Construction
Building such an enormous structure presented several challenges for engineers and construction workers. One major obstacle they faced was dealing with complex wind patterns around the River Thames.
To overcome this challenge, they designed special bearings that allowed the wheel to rotate independently from its support towers. This helped to reduce wind resistance and ensure smooth operation even during high winds.
Another challenge was the tight construction schedule. The London Eye had to be completed in time for the millennium celebrations, which meant that workers had to work around the clock to meet the deadline.
Completion and Opening
Despite these challenges, construction of the London Eye was completed in just 2 years. The wheel was officially opened on December 31, 1999 – just in time for the millennium celebrations.
Since then, the London Eye has become a popular tourist attraction, with over 3.75 million visitors each year. It has also been featured in several movies and TV shows, including James Bond’s “The World Is Not Enough” and “Doctor Who.”
Conclusion
In conclusion, the construction of the London Eye was a remarkable feat of engineering and design. It took just 2 years to build this giant Ferris wheel that has become an iconic part of London’s skyline. Thanks to its unique design and panoramic views, it continues to be one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city.