BUSINESS and tourism leaders have thrown their support behind plans to bring a big wheel back to York.

They have spoken of the huge economic benefits to the city if York Museums Trust and Great City Attractions are given planning permission to erect the 53-metre wheel in the Museum Gardens for three years.

Their comments come after a flood of criticism of the proposals from conservationists and local householders, worried about the visual impact and loss of privacy.

Frank Wood, a city centre jeweller and chairman of the York Retail Forum, said the observation wheel could provide the boost that York’s shops needed after going through a very disappointing Christmas and as they braced themselves for a very difficult year.

He said: “The wheel would bring people to York as a major attraction and increase footfall.”

Susie Cawood, head of York and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, which represents 800 businesses in the region, said that when a wheel had previously been based at the National Railway Museum, it had led to a definite increase in visitor numbers.

She said the wheel would benefit local businesses such as shops and restaurants at a difficult time for the economy, as well as creating new jobs.

Gillian Cruddas, of Visit York, said the wheel would add a new dimension to the city. She said: “It acts as a hook to bring in new visitors, boosting revenue for the local economy.”

Gary Verity, chief executive of Welcome To Yorkshire, said: “The new attraction would serve to draw in even more visitors, giving them a bird’s eye view of York’s historical city centre and beyond.”