SINGAPORE (AP) -- Singapore has announced it will build a 170-meter (561-foot) -tall Ferris wheel to surpass the London Eye as the world's largest -- assuming Shanghai does not deliver an even bigger one first.

The "Singapore Flyer" is expected to cost 200 million Singapore dollars (US$115 million) and reach the height of a 45-story building when it is completed by 2005, the Singapore Tourism Board said in announcing the measure to help the battered travel industry recover from SARS.

Observers at the top will be able to see as far as neighboring Indonesia and Malaysia, the same view people can enjoy from the top floors of skyscrapers here, officials said.

If Singapore does set a record with its wheel, it may not hold it for long. China said last year it planned to build a 200-meter (660-foot) wheel in its commercial hub of Shanghai -- also by 2005.

The chief executive of the Singapore project's development managers, Orient and Pacific, said the wheel here would be a major engineering feat, not just a "carnival attraction."

Peter Purcell acknowledged the city-state's wheel was a copy of the London version, but said he did not know of any modern piece of construction that had not followed on from other ideas.

"I stand accused and plead guilty," Purcell said when asked whether the plan had imitated London's wheel.

The London Eye, one of the British capital's most popular tourist attractions, is 135 meters (446 feet) tall, according to the Guinness Book of World Records' Web site.

In recent weeks, wealthy Singapore has been rolling out a number of tourism projects as it struggles to lure back visitors scared away by the SARS outbreak, which killed 32 people here.

From the Straits Times:

$200 m ride

On a clear day you'll be able to see Johor, Batam and Bintan from the $200 m Singapore Flyer coming up on Marina Bay by end 2005. It will be the world's largest revolving structure

By Camilla Chiam

THE world's largest ferris wheel could take you for a whirl on the Marina Bay waterfront as early as November 2005. At 170m, the Singapore Flyer will stand 35m taller than the wildly successful London Eye, erected on the banks of the Thames.

Its 32 air-conditioned glass capsules are designed to take up to 25 people. On a clear day, they will have a 45km view all round and even see parts of Malaysia and Indonesia.

The observation wheel will sit atop a three-storey building housing 20 tourist-related shops and entertainment outlets, which will be linked by travellators to the Millenia MRT station due to open in mid-2005.

The $200 million project set on 3.37ha of land is the largest foreign direct investment ever in a visitor attraction here.

The investors, the Melchers Group and the Orient and Pacific Group, sealed the deal at the Pan Pacific Hotel yesterday by signing an agreement with the Singapore Tourism Board.

Melchers is a German logistics and engineering services company; Orient and Pacific Group a consultancy based in the British Virgin Islands.

STB chief Lim Neo Chian believes the Singapore Flyer will 'spur Singapore's tourism industry to greater heights'. It is projected to draw more than 2.5 million visitors to spend $94 million in its first year. Tourism here could certainly use a boost, with visitor arrivals down by as much as 70 per cent.

Melchers' general manager Patrick MacMahon, 38, says he is sure the Flyer will be ready a year before its competition, the 200m-tall Shanghai Star, is due to crown that city's skyline in 2005. He claims that the Shanghai Star will open in 2006 instead. 'The Shanghai Star is still in negotiation, but we've already moved forward with the Singapore Flyer today,' he said.

Mr Xu Junhui, 28, an engineer who rode on the London Eye in 2000, can't wait. He said: 'I drive along the East Coast Parkway and look at the skyline so I'm really curious to see what it would look like from the top.'

View it in PDF (http://straitstimes.asia1.com.sg/mnt/media/image/launched/2003-06-28/ride.pdf)

Giant ferris wheel could've been bigger...

Height limit is placed on the 170m-tall 'Singapore Flyer' as it is close to an air corridor leading to Paya Lebar Airbase

By David Boey

IF NOT for height restrictions imposed by the flight path leading to Paya Lebar Airbase, the massive 170m high giant observation wheel dubbed the Singapore Flyer could actually stand taller.

The height limit was imposed as the structure, which will stand on a 3.37 ha site at Marina Bay at the end of 2005, towers quite close to an air corridor that leads to Paya Lebar Airport from the south.

Still, the steel structure's proposed design already dwarfs the British Airways London Eye, an enormous 135m tall observation wheel which stands on the south bank of the River Thames in London.

The British tourism magnet looks set to lose its reputation as the world's biggest observation wheel once the Singapore Flyer starts spinning.

The Singapore Flyer will be some 35m taller than the London Eye, although the upcoming Singapore landmark will sit on a 20m high foundation.

The joint press release issued yesterday by the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) and Melchers Project Management, an engineering firm which is developing the structure jointly with STB under a $200 million project, did not hold back on superlatives when describing the Singapore Flyer.

The proposed 1,100 tonne structure has been dubbed 'the world's highest observation wheel', and that it will be a 'technologically advanced engineering and design marvel'.

But one pressing engineering challenge is more basic: how to make it spin without giving passengers motion sickness.

Mr Brendon McNiven, assistant director of Arup, a global engineering consulting firm engaged to build the Singapore Flyer, said: 'We need to make the structure stiff enough so it will not oscillate so quickly and if you can limit the acceleration, it will make people feel better.'

Mr McNiven said wind conditions here work in the design team's favour, as gusts are not as ferocious as those in places further away from the equator.

Each of the 32 observation capsules will be strung to the wheel's central spindle by a pair of steel cables some 70m long.

Each cable will carry dumbbell-shaped weights to help reduce vibrations so passengers will enjoy a smooth 37-minute round trip to the top and back.

The design of the wheel should be finalised by December and construction should begin early next year.

Pictures
http://straitstimes.asia1.com.sg/mnt/media/image/launched/2003-06-27/ferriswheel.jpg
The observation wheel will be sited at the bayfront marina complex, and give riders a view three countries. To be ready in 2006, it will be accessible by train.
http://straitstimes.asia1.com.sg/mnt/media/image/launched/2003-06-27/wheel.jpg
BIG WHEEL: A Singaporean cameraman adjusts his lighting as he gets ready to photograph a scale model of a planned 170m-tall Ferris wheel that is being planned for Singapore. It will be similar to but taller than the London Eye. The Singapore Tourism Board on Friday announced a list of projects to win back visitors following the Sars crisis.

Soaring 35m higher than the Millennium Wheel in London, the Singapore Flyer will cost S$200 million (US$114 million) and is expected to attract 2.5 million visitors in its first year of operation in 2006.

'It will be a technologically advanced engineering and design marvel, scaling new heights as it gently cruises to 170m above ground,' the project's developer, German firm Melchers, said in a statement.

'It will sport stunning views of three countries and serve as the signature architecture gracing Singapore's landscape.'

Designed by Japanese architect Kisho Kurosawa, the Singapore Flyer will have 32 air-conditioned 'capsules' that can each carry up to 25 people for a 37-minute ride, with laser beams ensuring it will light up the Singapore skyline.

It will be located at the bayfront Marina complex, have a waterfront dining area and will be accessible by train.

Senior Minister of State for Trade and Industry Tharman Shanmugaratnam said one million of the estimated 2.5 million passengers in 2006 were expected to be from overseas, helping the Singapore Flyer generate about $94 million in earnings for the year.

Here are pictures of the model I took at the URA Gallery in Singapore.

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/photopost/data/504/103wheela.jpg

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/photopost/data/504/103wheelb.jpg

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/photopost/data/504/103wheelc.jpg

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/photopost/data/504/103wheeld.jpg

nice wheel!!

nice model too:cool:

looks great.

That looks great. Can it stand up to typhoon-force winds? Or does Singapore not get any monster storms?

You might be glad to noe that Singapore does not experience typhoons or any other major storms. Come to think of it, do you noe where Singapore is? ;)

Oh I know where it is. When I was there, it was so dry and hot, at the same time as the Philippine dry seasons, so I wondered if they get the same weather patterns in the Malaysia/S'pore region. I guess the Philippines gets all the worst weather.

wow it is cool:cool: hehe hope Malaysia will get 1 too, hope it will built in Genting Highland:D

hehehe...i don't think genting will get this thing. it's too huge. anyway some people outside asia said that singapore (and Shanghai which will be world tallest observation wheel) is copycat the idea from London Eye and claim that it is not original. why there are soo jealous of us? so, only London deserve to have it's own observation wheel?

Well as herloim and benny pointed out in another thread...didnt the Londeners copy theirs from the one in Yokohama? ;) Yet no one compained at that time.....

when was London Eye completed?? i don't thikn i see it before

The London Eye was complated in year 1999 in conjunction with the milliennium celebration. ;)

STB confident Singapore Flyer will fly

THE Singapore Tourism Board (STB) would like to thank writers for sharing their views on the Singapore Flyer observation wheel ('Singapore Flyer won't fly'; ST, July 2, and This & That column; ST, July 3). We welcome feedback from the public and interested parties on tourism-related matters.

STB firmly believes that the Singapore Flyer will add substantially to the diversity and vibrancy of attractions available to tourists and Singaporeans alike.

It will also boost the perception of Singapore as a happening place and provide an important contribution to the tourism sector and the economy through the patronage and expenditure that it will attract from visitors.

The project has many unique elements in terms of size, scope and design. It also benefits from lessons learnt from successful icons such as the London Eye. This gives it an important benchmark and we are confident that the project will be a success and an enduring feature.

While STB supports the project, we would like to point out that the Singapore Flyer is a private-sector initiative undertaken by an experienced and reputable international consortium. Together with government agencies such as the Urban Redevelopment Authority, Land Transport Authority and National Parks Board, STB helped the consortium to secure the necessary government approvals for the project.

STB will also purchase the land and lease it to the project developer, Melchers Project Management. It should be noted that the $200 million funding for the project will be provided by the private sector.

STB has seen first hand the great deal of planning and research that have been put into the project by the consortium and its world-renowned architect. While we welcome views on the Singapore Flyer, it would not have been appropriate for the STB to seek public feedback on behalf of the private-sector consortium. The consortium has had enormous experience in projects of this nature.

We at STB, like many others in Singapore and the international community, look forward to enjoying the view from the top of the Singapore Flyer when it is completed in 2005.


SHIRLEY TAN (MS)
Director, Corporate Communications
Singapore Tourism Board

Actually I am starting to get a bit positive about this ferris wheel thingy. When I first heard of it......tackines and Las Vegas comes to mind! :D

But come and think of it....Its kinda unique and should I go to London I would definitely try out the London Eye and if Spore has one....I would try it out too. :D :D :D

From earlier reports, it is said that the London Eye is just a few years or so temp structure.....I guess they are extending it now?

Anyway I still can't believe that the Spore authorities would be so daring on something like the Spore Flyer. Kudos to Sporeans! ;)

hehehe...i don't think genting will get this thing. it's too huge. anyway some people outside asia said that singapore (and Shanghai which will be world tallest observation wheel) is copycat the idea from London Eye and claim that it is not original. why there are soo jealous of us? so, only London deserve to have it's own observation wheel?

if built on the Genting it will be the world tallest above sea level observation wheel :D

http://www.skyscraperpage.com/cities/?buildingID=12795&drawingID=15001
Is it okay?:)

Comparison:
http://www.skyscraperpage.com/cities/?buildingID=12795&drawingID=15001 http://www.skyscraperpage.com/cities/?buildingID=1579&drawingID=13710
Singapore Flyer, London Eye

I just finished Parkview Square!!
http://www.skyscraperpage.com/cities/?buildingID=12805&drawingID=15012

Now...That's The differences...

I've been waiting a long time for ParkView Square. Nice diagrams! :okay:

Cant wait to see the Flyer for real!

great!! i wanna see the real thing as soon as possible

I prefer the design of the london eye...but singapore flyer is taller:guns1:

nice design. look just like ferris wheel in the fair.

sweet cliff...i mean it;)

Thanks!:D

Originally posted by Cliff

I just finished Parkview Square!!
http://www.skyscraperpage.com/cities/?buildingID=12805&drawingID=15012

This is damn cute. :D Do you have a larger version?

And I think u might have to redo the Singapore Flyer one when they finally come up with the design! ;)

:D

No, I did it 1:1, But I may do larger diagrams of other buildings, like OUB.09 ;)

I would do a better Singapore Flyer, this one was not very well done.:)

Just for fun, here's my newest Empire State Building
http://skyscraperpage.com/gallery/data/500/851.jpg :D

very nice diagram, Cliff.

What pogram did u use to draw them?

Cliff, thats amazing!:D

Microsoft Paint.:)

Maybe China will respond by building it in Tibet......

huaiwei, go and dig up some info to see whats going on with it!:D

Er? I think they are awaiting financing or something.......construction is due to start anytime soon! Meanwhile, did you guys see the "official" site?

Originally posted by huaiwei

Er? I think they are awaiting financing or something.......construction is due to start anytime soon! Meanwhile, did you guys see the "official" site?

Nope, show us the link or info:angel1:

hey, cool. my thread landed here:D

anything new with it?

Good idea, it looks like it could offer decent views. ;)

Originally posted by savethewtc

Good idea, it looks like it could offer decent views. ;) Well, it better do, or else it will be a damn bad idea! :D

Come to think of it, what will probably sustain it in the long term would be the price for taking a ride in it. ;)

Great work cliff!! :eek:

Your Parkview Square seems abit dark. Is there anyway to make it brighter without redrawing it all over again?

I can always use Paintshop pro.:D

Originally posted by Cliff

I can always use Paintshop pro.:D So where's the mega diagram of parkview square you promised? :D

Originally posted by huaiwei

So where's the mega diagram of parkview square you promised? :D

I only did one floor, and now I'm way too busy with my CA1 comming up next week.:D

Chinese and English papers on Wednesday 4/2
Maths and Physics on Thursday 5/2
S.S. and Chemistry on Friday 6/2
A Maths and Geography on Monday 9/2
Biology on Tuesday 10/2

Tomorrow is Physics and Amthas test 29/1
Friday is A maths test on another chapter. 30/1

AHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!

Aiyah....CA only mah.....:D

Anyway.........any updates about this thing?

Yeah. Haven't heard anything about it at all for a long time. I hope it hasn't been dropped... :bash:

I doubt it would...for if it happens, the signs should have appeared by now! :D

Originally posted by huaiwei

I doubt it would...for if it happens, the signs should have appeared by now! :D

What sort of signs, i wonder?

Originally posted by EyeToEye

What sort of signs, i wonder? Usually the media here is sharp enough to detect something is amiss lah. :D

Originally posted by huaiwei

Usually the media here is sharp enough to detect something is amiss lah. :D

I see.... but i've never seen those kinds of reports before.

Originally posted by EyeToEye

I see.... but i've never seen those kinds of reports before. Neither have I, so I would assume it is still on track...for now! :D

Originally posted by huaiwei

Neither have I, so I would assume it is still on track...for now! :D

I see... i hope it is... it's such a wonderful project...

Oh? Not everyone is happy about the wheel thou. :D

Originally posted by huaiwei

Oh? Not everyone is happy about the wheel thou. :D

It's no surprise.
I sometimes wonder what Singapore would be like today if the Esplanade theatres project had been cancelled(perhaps due to budget problems?).

I doubt it would have made that much of a diff....the energy would just go elsewhere I think. ;)

yah dont think Singaporeans would have cared that much. Apart from us, the average Singaporean is quite nonchalant about such things:D

What you mean it just dies off like that???
The construction is supposed to start this year, but when I went up Millenia Tower, I saw nothing but grass on the site.

We are not saying its dead lah....I think some of us are just getting paranoid! :D

Nobody said its not getting built. Its still early in the year and maybe the frequent rains has been delaying work? I am sure if its not happening the press will report it.

Guys,

no good news on this one - the architect has been supposedly changed, don't know when and if the thing will finally progress (after all, for such a unique risk investment, the whole funding got to be ready before construction starts).

Originally posted by Nova Singapore

Guys,

no good news on this one - the architect has been supposedly changed, don't know when and if the thing will finally progress (after all, for such a unique risk investment, the whole funding got to be ready before construction starts). Just curious, but where do you usually manage to source your string of "bad news" from? :D

Good news or bad news I guess the press will release further details.

Btw ,what's the status on the Singpapore Flyer?:?

Originally posted by redstone

Btw ,what's the status on the Singpapore Flyer?:? I think it is still on. That article talking about the $300B development think mentioned the flyer too, with no hint of negative news so far?

look what i found!!

http://www.am.joneslanglasalle.com/News/News%20Release%20Eflyer/2003/07jul/SGFlyer.jpg

Wow! It looks kind'a familiar... is the city really that 'green'? ;) And why are all the cars on the road red, white, blue or black?

Lol... nevermind... juts ignore me...

It looks really skinny....

and this small pic
http://www.rsi.com.sg/imagegallery/store/php2v7FHx.jpg

What article?:?

The Flyer is supposed to start construction by Nov 2003.

Originally posted by huaiwei

I think it is still on. That article talking about the $300B development think mentioned the flyer too, with no hint of negative news so far? :eek:
b and m make a lot of diff.. :bash:

$300b is more than enuf for the building all the rail network liao lor...

You can do lots of things with 300b!

Originally posted by huaiwei

I think it is still on. That article talking about the $300B development think mentioned the flyer too, with no hint of negative news so far?

Nah the $300 million is coming out from the government to develop infrastructure for the new downtown. The Singapore Flyer will be financed privately by a consortium of investors.

Originally posted by redstone

The Flyer is supposed to start construction by Nov 2003.

Its supposed to be completed by end of 2005, so still enough time..fingers crossed:cheers:

Lets pray it comes up....

OMG!!! :eek2: :eek: That looks amazing!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Great find heirloom!

@E2E, it really is that green as this pic shows. It will be built on that green patch.
http://www.skyscrapercity.com/photopost/data/504/9roofsuntec1.jpg

Originally posted by EyeToEye

Wow! It looks kind'a familiar... is the city really that 'green'? ;) And why are all the cars on the road red, white, blue or black?

Lol... nevermind... juts ignore me...

It looks really skinny....

hehe that composition of colours look more perth-y... all white cars.. boring as shit... shit more interestingg

it is skinny isn't it... i'm starting to warm up to this design now :D i think it'd be prettier without the podium.. but ... let's just wait and see.

It's definately not as sleek and sexy as i would've preferred....

i imagine if you stood perpendicular to the wheel and looked at it (from outside the podium) you'd see something that looks almost impossible... a huge wheel that manages to be balanced by two tall sticks...

Originally posted by heirloom

i imagine if you stood perpendicular to the wheel and looked at it (from outside the podium) you'd see something that looks almost impossible... a huge wheel that manages to be balanced by two tall sticks...

Erm.. kind'a hard to picture.. but i can imagine it would be pretty strange...

Haha..sory for the typo....but that article talking about the marina south thing did mention the singpore flyer in the graphics lah...aiyoh.....of coz it didnt assume the money includes the flyer! :D

Hey..I saw that picture in the news article recently! ;)

i stole it off the jones lang lasalle website..

Originally posted by heirloom

i stole it off the jones lang lasalle website..

Lol.... that's honest....

um no actually i drew it myself.

Originally posted by heirloom

um no actually i drew it myself.

excellent!

Originally posted by huaiwei

Hey..I saw that picture in the news article recently! ;)

How come its in the news again? What was the article about?:?

Nice picture!

Originally posted by RafflesCity

How come its in the news again? What was the article about?:? the same article about Marina developments loh...I doint think it appeared in the online edition.

eh.. what architect change?!

eh.. what architect change?!
Ah? what where who when?

Guys,

no good news on this one - the architect has been supposedly changed, don't know when and if the thing will finally progress (after all, for such a unique risk investment, the whole funding got to be ready before construction starts).


here lor

here lor
Oh...that guy is usually someone bringing us all the bad news lah. But somehow he dosent substaintiate what he says after we are for more details?

ohoh.. who is he arh?

ohoh.. who is he arh?
Some ang mo married to a Singaporean.....

is it? den why so boliao bring bad news without source?

Microsoft Paint.:)

MS Paint?? Man that's awesome. I avoid Paint whenever I can. Only used it for some technical drawings during my temp work. Otherwise Adobe products are best for graphics editing.

Love your illustrations man, they rule!! :D

Any updates so far.It was supposed to start const in Nov 2003.But...

I dont think they said it would start construction end of 2003 did it?

I remember they said it will be ready end of 2005.

I had emailed the STB about this ,but no reply.It has been almost 2 weeks or so.

you emailed? How about call them up.

Dunno leh.

This plan shows you the street layout and positioning of the Singapore Flyer. A fairly large site.

http://www.ura.gov.sg/waterfront/images/Appendix4_map.gif

So why so long no news yet?

I guess the parts will be prefabricated elsewhere and assembled on site...but I have yet to check out the actual site myself...

This plan shows you the street layout and positioning of the Singapore Flyer. A fairly large site.

http://www.ura.gov.sg/waterfront/images/Appendix4_map.gif
Why I love this map! It even has dimensions of the bay! ;)

Buildings occupying a city block each?!

Bad idea!

Buildings occupying a city block each?!

Bad idea!
Where did you get that idea from....

The size of the blocks look small?

Must not be too grid-like, or else Singapore would look too American.

The size of the blocks look small?

Must not be too grid-like, or else Singapore would look too American.
You are crazy. Each of those blocks are at least twice as big as LPS. 8 of our existing buildings can fit into one block, so just how big do you want them to be??

actually they are huge!!

Wow, Downtown project is so big? :eek:

From some aerial renderings they look like just a building each...

Doesnt mean that the buildings will occupy the entire plots given to them. I bet most of these buildings will use the space to build spacious and attractive plazas. I hardly think the new downtown is necessarily about squeezing all the buildings together at street level.

Yes some of the plots will be for one tower, and they look "small" because they are...ironically, so big that they occupy such a huge footprint!

I can't wait for the City Park to be surrounded by buildings.Perhaps in say 30 years time?

The Marina Square website do give a hint that we can expect the Singapore flyer to materialise.......

http://www.marinasquare.com.sg/aboutus/Corp_background.html (look at remodelled mall)

Yes its being mentioned repeatedly so I just cant wait!

and the new Marina Square looks very cool! :banana:

Yes its being mentioned repeatedly so I just cant wait!

and the new Marina Square looks very cool! :banana:

About time(marina square i mean)......it beginning to look old....:yes:

Not to mention the construction works going on there are so irritating!

and the rooftop garden at the bridge is getting dirty :bash:

Still no news when the wheel is going to start construction. :bash:

I dont think construction of the wheel will take that long

I heard the London Eye was prefabricated elsewhere then they ship the parts and put it together like a copnstruction kit.

a night rendering

http://archive.rsi.com.sg/en/programmes/s_scene/Images/s_flyer01.jpg

COOL find!

Imagine it being lighted up at night......

What's taking it so long? :bash:

2005 isnt' here yet mar.. although the article i read that came with the picture said they hoped the millenia station would open a little before the opening of the wheel.. i thought circle line would open in 2006 earliest and must now be delayed because of the accident?

I heard from my consultant work that it may NOT get built. The govt sold the land to them for something silly like 1sing dollar! However, all there is is a memerandum of understanding. The sing govt is trying to drum up support so that people get excited and force the company to build. It'd be a big thing for a foreign leisure company to invest so much in such a landmark project abroad.

However, there seems to be a critical mass approaching. The new theme park on Sentosa, and then the new big casino (either near Orchard Rd, new cbd area or on the outer islands - whichever they choose). So foreign leisure companies are coming here and that makes the industry look this way, so we can expect more in the future.

I can tell you for a fact it won't be built without the mrt station being ready. Although we may see construction earlier but probably won't open till they've built the mrt and from what I hear, that walkway across the river too.

I'd say early to mid 2006 for it to be open and maybe late december for construction of the site.

Ah...I dunno if that should be good or bad news, but I would rather they build it later with a bigger captive audience due to connectivity then earlier and running empty all the time.

But for the bridge over the bay/reservoir....that is going to take many more years isnt it?

aw.. pity. stupid circle line. i have a feeling if they just provided a shuttle bus from city hall traffic would still be very high though..

I can tell you for a fact it won't be built without the mrt station being ready. Although we may see construction earlier but probably won't open till they've built the mrt and from what I hear, that walkway across the river too.

I'd say early to mid 2006 for it to be open and maybe late december for construction of the site.

sounds like they just wanna wait for the optimum conditions, but by then maybe another city (Shanghai I heard) wouldve built something bigger. I wonder if theyd then proceed with it if that happens.

Nevertheless I am optimistic about that site yielding something exciting :banana:

somehow i hardly think they can back down after making so much fuss over it..

somehow i hardly think they can back down after making so much fuss over it..

maybe, or they could just keep quiet as if nothing happened...I dont think the average Joe on the street is going to harp on it.

Who knows if the casino really opens this may be long forgotten...

It would be much better if the Singapore Flyer is not built at Marina Centre but at the proposed promontory site at the new Bayfront Avenue, directly opposite to the Oriental hotel. From there the view towards Singapore's historic centre is much better, and the Flyer would be better integrated into the city skyline. Much more, it could boost the development of new downtown ...

quite true and that makes sense, then theyd have incentive to speed up the bridge....

... if the foundation of the Flyer were at the westernmost point of the promontory site the cabins would be partly above the water of Marina Bay ... this would be something very special :)

but dear me that would spoil their very perfect plans!

Actually, I don't really like the idea of a ferris wheel, Singapore is too sophisticated for an oversized amusement park ride. I would much rather have some sort of impressive beacon, much like the Statue of Liberty in NY, only more futuristic, but with the same purpose of welcoming the world to the city. It would be like a silver spire, piercing the sky and at night, beams of powerful light will shine from its tip, across the seas. It will still act as an observation structure.

i think the ferris wheel could be both oversized amusement park ride and impressive beacon mar.. if done well it could be very beautiful.

i think the ferris wheel could be both oversized amusement park ride and impressive beacon mar.. if done well it could be very beautiful.

If not, it'd look like some giant baby had too much milk and had to defacate on Marina Bay....

:rofl:

I think a huge Ferris wheel could have the potential to be wondrous at night, if they light up all the pods. They could also outline in in neon, just like Suntec City. That would help to break up the angularity over there.

dont outline in neon lar... just light the pods from inside in a very bright white light and make sure the pods are non reflecting.

Pr you could do what Japan does with it's ferris wheels and make the entire thing a shiny disc of rainbow-coloured hell....

uhuhuhuhuhh that's if you want to make singapore look like hong kong.

Neon lights that are visible on the city skyline are a BIG NO NO! Why? Because it makes the entire city look like some gambling town.

If they insist on having neon lights, have them at street level instead. By doing so, they can retain the existing ''glam'' and posh factor of the Singapore skyline and yet enhance the atmosphere of the city at the street level at certain areas. Perks up the entire place.

I don't like the neon outline of the Suntec City Towers. I would have rather they just install floodlights at certain places aimed at certain parts of the building so that the towers can be seen at night. Something like what UOB Plaza Two is doing. Such yellowish orangish neon lights are more suited for places with olden day appeal like the Fullerton, not high rise skyscrapers.

Pr you could do what Japan does with it's ferris wheels and make the entire thing a shiny disc of rainbow-coloured hell....

Japan did a good job at lighting up its ferris wheel though. Though I still prefer if the Singapore Flyer were lit up in white (looks so holy, so innocent, so posh, so glam, so cool), if they really do insist on colouring it up do it like Japan. Don't do it like some chinese new year festival red bright lights. Very cheena.

ooh if its sexy red glow i dont mind.. sexy red glowing orbs in a circle.

I really wanna know when's construction gonna start...

white lights would be best. I dont want it tacky like Hong Kong

i hope there'll be like different lights for different occassions eg all red (a la eiffel tower) for chinese new year, all green (will be like parkview square) for christmas, purple for deepavali and uhhh hari raya colour.

lol hari raya colour...

I think the night rendering one is great, just so elegant! Keep it that way!

Singapore Flyer, Singapore

Start Date: 2003 | Completion Date: 2006

http://www.arup.com/IMAGEBANK/image4885.jpg

Singapore Flyer will be a 150 metre diameter rotating giant observation wheel with 32 fully air-conditioned capsules, each capable of handling 25 passengers at a time.

The observation wheel will sit within a 3-storey terminal building at the base that will comprise of tourist-related specialty shops and entertainment outlets.

Special features will include elevated links to the new Millennia MRT station, waterfront taxis at Marina Bay Jetty, a bus terminal for 40 tour group buses and a parking building for 300 motor vehicles.

Arup drew on its world-wide experience from Australia, Japan, the UK, and Singapore to provide traffic, structure, civil, MEP and fire engineering services.

http://www.arup.com/IMAGEBANK/image4886.jpg
http://www.arup.com/IMAGEBANK/image4887.jpg

Arup worked with the client in the early feasibility stages of the project taking some of the speculative risk (in a success fee arrangement), in order to facilitate the realisation of the project.

The concept design stage for the wheel, and the associated terminal and car park buildings is complete with the next stage of design (the schematic design) taking place.

Custom-written computer software was used in the design to optimise the arrangement of tension spoke cables with the size and stiffness of the rim structure. The resulting structure will be lightweight and elegant, creating a new icon for the Singapore skyline.

Design challenges to come include ensuring occupant comfort under the 'Sumatra squall' wind conditions found specifically in the Singapore region. Extensive wind research and dynamic modelling will be carried out to ensure adequate performance in this respect.

The overall project value is S$200M and construction is expected to be complete by mid 2006.

http://www.arup.com/australasia/project.cfm?pageid=1571

Construction of the Singapore Flyer is on the way... See? They are clearing the land :banana:

http://img155.exs.cx/img155/7563/20041217p2a7nk.jpg

^Can't see leh.......:?

Hmmm... Do you think the casino will be built below the Singapore Flyer?

^Can't see leh.......:?

Can you see it now?

http://img64.exs.cx/img64/1171/marina1arrow9en.jpg

Hmmm... Do you think the casino will be built below the Singapore Flyer?

I dun think so......dun think the govt will select such an "convenient" location.....anyway I think Sentosa and Marina South more likely......:yes:

I dun think so......dun think the govt will select such an "convenient" location.....anyway I think Sentosa and Marina South more likely......:yes:

But, the night picture makes me think of Las Vegas.

Er....that location is Marina East leh....

Huh?? the flyer located at Marina East mair?? I thought it should be located somewhere near Ritz Carlton???

Er....that location is Marina East leh....

:laugh: Me Bai3 Wu1 Long2.

Hmmm... Why are they clearing the land?

Huh?? the flyer located at Marina East mair?? I thought it should be located somewhere near Ritz Carlton???

Sorry... my mistake ;)

http://img68.exs.cx/img68/1622/marina1arrow3li.jpg

:laugh: Me Bai3 Wu1 Long2.

Hmmm... Why are they clearing the land?

Most probably new developments on the way........:yes:

Start in 2003? :rofl: :bleep:

Now 2004 is ending in 2 weeks!

Most probably new developments on the way........:yes:

A new golf course will be built at Marina East. Unfortunately the following article is only available in Google's cache:

http://www.google.de/search?q=cache:rKJ8yR095pEJ:straitstimes.asia1.com.sg/columnist/0,1886,275-222682--1084744740,00.html+%22golf+course%22+%22marina+east%22&hl=en

A new golf course will be built at Marina East. Unfortunately the following article is only available in Google's cache:

http://www.google.de/search?q=cache:rKJ8yR095pEJ:straitstimes.asia1.com.sg/columnist/0,1886,275-222682--1084744740,00.html+%22golf+course%22+%22marina+east%22&hl=en

That's great! :)

Something to look forward to without having to pay hefty entrance fees and regular monthly fees... Now, where did I misplace that golf rules handbook... time for relearn the game again!

But, I wonder how interesting or challenging the course would be, since it's a flat piece of land? Any idea who will design the course?

Start in 2003? :rofl: :bleep:

Now 2004 is ending in 2 weeks!

They plan in 2003, design and get approvals in 2004, probably concurrently build the wheel somewhere (like Thailand) and its base in 2005, then transport the wheel by ship for installation... so should be in time for 2006 completion? hehe... :jk:

maybe the construction will be delayed to coincide with the opening of the MRT station

I had no idea they were building a golf course there! but possibly the Marina Barrage will be built along there too.

Golf course?? Hmm I guess residents staying in the Sail and those at the staduim boulevard area will be frequent customers.......:yes:

Golf course?!?! :bleep::rant:

Not again?!


Might as well expand the Downtown!

http://www.arup.com/IMAGEBANK/image4886.jpg
http://www.arup.com/IMAGEBANK/image4887.jpg

such a horrible waste of land around it dun you think? they could've sited it nearer the roads, instead of a big patch of flat land rendered undevelopable for other purposes, save ambling garden trails, boulevards and themeparks. I always thought that this prime plot of land, located at the confluence of the Kallang and MArina basins, could've been strategically packaged as a mega new BFC centre, like Dubai's fantastic business Bay. The views would've been fantastic! imagine living with two bays outside your window. Singapore ah, no imagery in developing her urban areas. Our promenade thing also quite unimaginative lei. I dun see any differentiating buzz about it.

http://www.arup.com/IMAGEBANK/image4886.jpg
http://www.arup.com/IMAGEBANK/image4887.jpg

such a horrible waste of land around it dun you think? they could've sited it nearer the roads, instead of a big patch of flat land rendered undevelopable for other purposes, save ambling garden trails, boulevards and themeparks. I always thought that this prime plot of land, located at the confluence of the Kallang and MArina basins, could've been strategically packaged as a mega new BFC centre, like Dubai's fantastic business Bay. The views would've been fantastic! imagine living with two bays outside your window. Singapore ah, no imagery in developing her urban areas. Our promenade thing also quite unimaginative lei. I dun see any differentiating buzz about it.

I do agree with you that the siting of it there seems rather arbitrary as that patch is really iconic...but i wonder what time will throw up...

But, where would you locate the wheel? It can't be too close to the skyscrapers or residential area. On the other hand can't be too far away to enjoy a good view of Singapore city.

yes the location is good for an observation point, just that i wonder if the remaining land there will have other uses, I'm hope there will be supporting recreational activities there though, its a very good site by the water :)

What on earth happened to Singapore Flyer? :soapbox::cry:

It's gonna the biggest disappointment for fans like us....

Its model is all over the place, Sail showrooms, URA gallery, etc, why would it not be built?

It says completion by end or mid 2005...
Now is Feb 2005 already!!! :soapbox::cry:

I emailed the STB many months ago on the status of the wheel, but never got a reply...

1 word to summarize my feelings
" S I A N " haha....
so theres no construction or works on the proposed construction site?
How sad :'(
was anticipating it so dearly

someone here suggested that the opening might be delayed to coincide with opening of Millenia Circle Line station

They finally realised that a copied icon doesn't make a good icon no matter what you name it?

They finally realised that a copied icon doesn't make a good icon no matter what you name it?

Somehow, thats actually funny!:D

oh good, i hope they forgot all about it. its shitty. it ought to go somewhere else like fort canning, overlooking bras basah. wouldn't that be so overwhelmingly photogenic? the juxtaposition of extreme tones of whimsicality?

Understand that both the Carlsberg Sky Tower (Sentosa) and Singapore Flyer are belong to the same developer.
My guess is:- they are using Carlsberg Sky Tower to test the market and might have found that the profit margin is not high enough.

But this project will still stand a chance if a world class Integrated Resort (Casino) is built at Marina Bay (just right opposite the site proposed for Singapore Flyer)

Understand that both the Carlsberg Sky Tower (Sentosa) and Singapore Flyer are belong to the same developer.
My guess is:- they are using Carlsberg Sky Tower to test the market and might have found that the profit margin is not high enough.

But this project will still stand a chance if a world class Integrated Resort (Casino) is built at Marina Bay (just right opposite the site proposed for Singapore Flyer)

Hmm.....yeah......probably......but quite frankly I dun think I'll spend S$30 dollars just to be on the wheel loh(once maybe).........::lol:

Flyer is built by STB.... :yes:
A govt project...........

This is a private investment, see below:

Category : Trade and Industry

Subject : Singapore Flyer

Suggestion : It is doubtful whether STB's touted newest Singapore attraction - the Singapore Flyer will be sufficient to attract tourists. Is STB running out of idea such that it has to build the Singapore Flyer? Why must we be a copycat? I understand that a similar structure in UK is suffering from a low number of visits from the public and tourists. What is so attractive about Singapore that it is likely to succeed while a similar structure in UK is suffering from a lack of visits?

While the private sector is building the Singapore Flyer, the government is giving the land to the company. Why should the government be involved in this project? Why should the government be wasting taxpayers' money by giving land for free to the company? If the idea is so good, the company will not need to share the risk with the government. I hope the government is getting a makret return by giving the land to the company. If it is not getting any return, the government should re-study the proposal. (This is better than increasing GST and lowering the employer's CPF contribution. I hope my GST increase is not used to sponsor the giving of land to the company.) From a bigger picture, the government should also study whether it should be involved in the Singapore Flyer project in the first place. My advice is that we should not repeat London's mistake. We should learn from it.

Date of Reply : 08/10/2003

Reply : Thank you for your suggestion regarding the Singapore Flyer. We agree with your concerns and appreciate the opportunity to clarify the issue.

The entire Singapore Flyer project is fully funded by the private sector. The project will be undertaken by an experienced and reputable international consortium led by Melchers Project Management Pte Ltd (MPM). STB"s role in this project is mainly to facilitate the land lease needed for the development of the project. Under the terms of the Memorandum of Understanding signed between STB and Melchers, STB will purchase the land needed for the Singapore Flyer and lease it to MPM, the project developer, on commercial terms.

STB firmly believes that the Singapore Flyer will add substantially to the diversity and vibrancy of attractions available to tourists and Singaporeans alike. Although the concept is similar to the London Eye, the Singapore Flyer (designed by famous Japanese architect - Kisho Kurokawa) will hold its own with a unique design that emphasises Singapore"s tropical environment and physical context. For example, the entire terminal building is characterised by an ecologically-sensitive design, from the roof garden (to ensure energy saving) to a rainforest garden in the inner courtyard, where the public can catch a glimpse of the landing stage of the wheel.

The S$200 million which Melchers will invest in the Singapore Flyer is the largest ever investment for Singapore"s attractions sector. Once completed, it will not only strongly enhance Singapore"s destination appeal and cement its reputation as a leading tourist destination in Asia, but will also have a long-term positive impact on our economy. For example, in its first year of operation alone, it is expected to draw more than 2.5 million visitors, of which half is expected to come from overseas. In terms of tourism receipts, it is expected to generate an estimated S$94 million in its first year. The project will create new jobs and have other knock-on effects for other sectors such as the construction and steel fabrication industries.

Based on a detailed feasibility study conducted by MPM, as well as the visitorship of the London Eye and other similar observatory attractions such as the Eiffel Tower and the Empire State Building, we are confident that the Singapore Flyer will succeed.

Since its inception in 2001, the London Eye has exceeded expectations to become the No. 1 paid attraction in London, and one of Europe's most successful attractions. It attracted 3.8 million passengers in 2001 and 4 million passengers in 2002; representing about 27% market share among all paid attractions in London, ahead of the next most popular attraction, Madam Tussaud.

I trust the above address the concerns raised.

Regards,

Chang Chee Pey
Director
Sightseeing and Attractions

So now what's happened to it?

KIV case (Keep in View- army popular term)

Oh, so awaitng the right time?

Private investor cares only dollar & cent, they will build if there is money to be made.

The project is a big ticket $200 millions project, need to strike "20" times 10 millions TOTO hongbao to get this kind of money

I think it'll take off once the casino's in place......

the design idea so far sounds encouraging! and somemore by kisho kurokawa, i suspect it may feature lots of glass. but just dunno if he will do it with the right sensitivity to the whole tropical issue. afterall he is a japanese architect.

Many buildings also have all-glass facades here.....

you can't really clad an observation structure in anything but glass..?

Many buildings also have all-glass facades here.....

Yes, but the windows are still at waist level, not sure why...

Scared people fall lah. Anyway they probably had to delay it thanks to the tunnel collapse.

Why delay due to tunnel accident?:?

Personally I think its novelty could fade very fast, especially for Singaporeans, unless perhaps they incorporate some other attractions by the site...but this project has gone quiet all this while after it was announced with a bang in 2003.

Well..the MRT station is delayed....so no surprise they have to relay this as well. And I agree....I seriously wonder just how long it can sustain ridership amongst locals.

thing is some news articles continue to talk about it as a future attraction and its also seen in the Sail showroom, so right now it sounds merely delayed. Not that I'm losing too much sleep over it! :D

Can no longer find any news on Singapore Flyer at the developer's website:

http://www.melchers.com.sg/cgi-bin/relocation.pl?url=http://www.melchers.com.sg/news.htm

Bochap...I want my viewing tower at Fort Canning!!! :D

It is irritating that the URA, and by relation the govt, is far too pragmatic and sensible to even consider the more, say, creative (and therefore world-renowned) proposals that can only result from the easing or even elimination of building restrictions (height, floor area etc).

Loosen the binds, and creative energy will (probably) gush forth.

Bochap...I want my viewing tower at Fort Canning!!! :D

I would also support that as it can give more all-rounded views of the island compared to the Marina location. The area is also ancient and has more historical attractions than the reclaimed land ^^

maybe they dont want something tall enough to overlook the Istana?

It is irritating that the URA, and by relation the govt, is far too pragmatic and sensible to even consider the more, say, creative (and therefore world-renowned) proposals that can only result from the easing or even elimination of building restrictions (height, floor area etc).

Loosen the binds, and creative energy will (probably) gush forth.

The govt isn't flexible... :soapbox:

The Initial/orginial idea from URA was to have a observatory tower at Fort Canning, but this idea was shot down by Singapore Flyer. Never expect Singapore Flyer to shot at its own foot.

http://www.ura.gov.sg/landmarks/page3.html

urrgh..Fort Canning observatory would undoubtedly offer a better view! :rant:

I did ask URA before, were told that this is only a conceptual plan.

well..I hope there is the flexibility and means to implement it if it proves worthwhile after evaluation. But I suppose the Singapore Flyer would take precedence for now huh.

The annoucement on 18th April 2005 will decide the fate of Singapore Flyer and Southern Islands development plan. Hope that they can go ahead with two Integrated Resorts.

When my overseas colleagues ask me where to go in the nite, can only tell them
"Night Safari" & "Mohammed Sultan Road", hope to tell them something new soon.

you think the Singapore Flyer is linked with the casino proposal? Someone else earlier said that the Singapore Flyer would be dependent on the opening of Millenia MRT station.

But looks like Abu Dhabi has just planned a ferris wheel thats going to be taller than Singapore's ^^

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=194396

Lets accelerate continental drift and get Singapore into a more temperate climate.

Worse still, Taiwan already has a 110m Ferris Wheel:

http://www.taipeitimes.com/News/feat/archives/2005/01/13/2003219253

Tawian had never made any loud annoucement but instead built it quitely, this should be the way to go.

Problem with us :( (so many white elephant projects in Singapore)

1. They jump the gun and make too early annoucement before they have the cash in hand
2. Lack of proper market survey (Har Par Villa, Tang Dynasty)
3. Lack of full support from local authority (in term of funding, land & etc)
4. Lack of Sugar Daddy with deep pocket.

i have this gut feeling that ferris wheels should be free. otherwise no singaporeans will sit. maybe conceived as a bonus to singaporeans and tourists. like the way brunei sponsors healthcare. but of course if we go into that then we would rather healthcare receive more subsidy than have a feww ferris wheel ride.

Actually, both Millenia MRT & IR at Marina are important to Singapore Flyer:

Reason:

1. Millenia MRT solves the accessibility problem of the out of way Singapore Flyer

2. IR (casino) helps to bring in crowd/tourists to the Marina Bay.

This project will be viable if we can really bring in 17 million tourists as projected.

^

indeed. It will be more likely catered for tourists..depending on the price they would charge for a ride, maybe some Singaporeans too. Oh well, they could have 'special events' to market it like a wedding in one of the capsules like they did on London Eye!

By 2006, will this be completed?

By 2006, will this be completed?

I think at least by 2007......:yes:

Mr T (Tharman) mentioned November 2005 but Mr. V ( Vivian) said Mid 2006. Very confusing!!

http://www.mti.gov.sg/public/NWS/frm_NWS_Default.asp?sid=39&cid=1658

http://www.mti.gov.sg/public/NWS/frm_NWS_Default.asp?sid=39&cid=2078

Huh?
So there's a possibility of the wheel completed in 2007? :?

The Focus (main course) is now on IR (Integrated resort), which according to a foreign investment bank, can easily generate $1.4b annual tax revenue. Singapore flyer is now only a side dish or dessert to them, I guess.

IR includes casino???

Yes, just do the sum here:

One IR = $1.4B, 2 IR= $2.8b?

Singapore Flyer is only a private investment, not much tax benefit to them.

Singapore Flyer opening in end 07 instead.......:yes:

April 1, 2005
Giant wheel project delayed
'Complexities' push completion date from year end to 2007

By Glenys Sim

THE Singapore Flyer, projected to be the world's largest and tallest revolving structure, will not be ready by the end of the year as originally planned.

The giant observation wheel is to be located along Marina Bay, next to the upcoming Millenia MRT station. The project's complexities have delayed construction of the 170m-high wheel, the Singapore Tourism Board's sightseeing and cruise director, Mr Chang Chee Pey, told The Straits Times yesterday.

'The Singapore Flyer project has taken a longer time than anticipated because of complexities in terms of both legal and financing arrangements.

'Mega-projects of this scale generally take several years to be completed, and similar projects such as the London Eye required about five to six years from the time of conceptualisation to its official opening,' Mr Chang added. He was referring to the 135m-tall observation wheel erected on the south bank of the River Thames in London.

Mr Chang said the $200 million project, expected to spur Singapore's tourism industry to greater heights, is a 'private-sector initiative' led by a company called Singapore Flyer Pte Ltd.

The company is a joint venture between German logistics and engineering services company Melchers Project Management and Orient & Pacific Management, a consultancy based in the British Virgin Islands.

The project was announced in June 2003 and work was supposed to have started in the third quarter of last year.

It was to have been completed by the end of this year but a new completion target has since been set for the third quarter of 2007.

Singapore Flyer Pte Ltd's managing director, Mr Peter Purcell, said the company is currently finalising the necessary documentation with its own partners.

The Straits Times understands that no local partners will be involved in the project.

When complete, the Singapore Flyer will afford a view - on a clear day - of as far as Johor, Batam and Bintan from its 32 air-conditioned glass capsules, which can each take up to 35 people.

The STB is expecting the Singapore Flyer to draw 2.5 million visitors, half coming from overseas, in its first year of operation.

'We hope the necessary documentation will be finalised soon and we are confident that the project will proceed as planned after that,' said Mr Chang.

Copyright © 2005 Singapore Press Holdings. All rights reserved.

Hope this isn't a joke....

^
Nope it's not.....:yes:

I wonder would it beat Shanghai Star (status? :?) and that one in UAE....

Look like the S$3b casino at Marina Bay will be completed before this $200 million Singapore Flyer.

What a amazing upset by a FAT tortoise (Casino) against a SKINNY rabbit (Singapore Flyer).

Reason for this upset: Rabbit has "BIG" mouth, talk a lot but cannot deliver.......

hrm this poor ferris wheel wont have a chance to be tallest anymore. no matter i just hope its exquisitely designed. maybe can also act as human catapult to the casino.

I'll feedback again on the observation tower on Fort Canning....

No much chance for a observatory tower at Fort Canning, most of the space at the hill top has been taken up by a stupid reservoir.

We already have three: Sky Tower (Sentosa),Singapore Flyer (if they go ahead), 218m tower at Orchard Road.

it a pity that the singapore flyer could not be build by the end of this year and extended to the year 2007 could change our foreign tourist decision of visiting casino which is totally not use to our local people and currency :down:

Singapore Flyer now slated for completion by end-07

1 Apr 05

2-year delay due to financing issues which developer is close to resolving

By KALPANA RASHIWALA

THE Singapore Flyer - a giant observation wheel attraction planned for Marina Centre - has been delayed, owing to the project's complex legal and financing arrangements.


However, its developer, Singapore Flyer Pte Ltd, is close to resolving the financing issues and the main contract should be awarded soon, with a completion deadline by Christmas 2007, company director Patrick MacMahon said yesterday. The main contract is expected to be worth at least $150 million.

Originally, the $200 million observation wheel project was slated for completion in the fourth quarter of this year.

Talk of the project being affected by financing delays has been making the rounds for a while now. Singapore Tourism Board (STB), which announced the project in June 2003, yesterday denied setting a March 31 ultimatum for the project developer to get its financing in place. The ultimatum date was cited by sources whom BT spoke to.

Mr MacMahon said yesterday that the main contract (to be completed within 30 months) for the project will be awarded to a joint venture between Mitsubishi and Takenaka.

'The award is imminent, as soon as we get the financing issues out of the way - and these are under final negotiations,' Mr MacMahon said in a phone interview yesterday.

The financing involves both equity and debt financing, implying additional investors/shareholders in the company - which is 75 per cent controlled by German-based logistics and engineering services group Melchers. O&P Management holds the remaining 25 per cent.

The latter is part of Orient & Pacific Group, controlled by Australian Peter Purcell, formerly an Asia-Pacific partner with property consultancy group Jones Lang Wootton and who was based in Singapore.

Plans for the 170m-high observation wheel - which was inspired by the London Eye on the south bank of the River Thames - were first announced in mid-2003 when STB signed a memorandum of understanding with Melchers.

Mr MacMahon yesterday paid tribute to STB's 'outstanding support in all aspects of the project'.

STB director (sightseeing and cruise division) Chang Chee Pey acknowledged yesterday that, with hindsight, the 2 1/2-year completion timeframe first envisaged was over-ambitious. 'The London Eye required about five to six years to be completed, from the time of conceptualisation to its official opening in 2000,' he added.

STB will buy the site for the project from the Singapore Land Authority and lease it to Singapore Flyer Pte Ltd under a back-to-back deal. The length of the tenure will be 30 years with an option to renew for a further 15 years.

Mr Chang yesterday said that the STB has not taken possession of the land. While the legal agreement on this lease between the STB and Singapore Flyer Pte Ltd has been ironed out, it has yet to be signed, pending the latter finalising financing issues.

'So the ball is in their court, but we are hopeful this process can be concluded soon. And we are still looking at a foreign direct investment of $200 million as previously announced,' he said.

BT understands, however, that the latest development cost estimate may be about 5 per cent higher.

Ah....some news is better than no news! ;)

I wonder if redstone constantly bugging them for info helped ;)

I HAD emailed Melchers... :D

And apparantly they got worried....:D

Why? :D

Targeted revenue = $94 million, Visitors = 2.5 million
Per person need to spend: 94m/2.5m = S$37.6


原本预计在今年底完工的45层楼高“新加坡摩天观景轮”，将延迟到2007年才完工。

　　新加坡旅游局观光与游轮署长田子沛表示，工程延期完成的主要原因是，这个工程涉及复杂的法律和财务安排，因此比预料中需要更长的提前期（lead time）。

　　他说：这个工程涉及2亿元的外来投资，这类规模的大型工程往往需要好几年的时间来完成，类似的工程如‘伦敦之眼’（London Eye）观光摩天轮，从构思概念到正式开幕，也需要5、6年的时间。”

　　他指出，这是一项有私人企业推动的工程，主导这个工程的是由德国物流与工程服务公司美最时（Melchers）和英属维京群岛的发展商东方太平洋集团（Orient & Pacific）成立的合资公司新加坡摩天观景轮私人有限公司。该公司正在和合作伙伴订定有关的法律文件。

　　为了这项目，新加坡旅游局向土地局买下滨海城末端占地共3.37公顷地段，然后再租赁给“新加坡摩天观景轮”投资者——为期30年。

　　新加坡摩天观景轮的高度，约等于我国三大建筑物大华银行、华联大厦及共和大厦（280公尺）的三分二，可让游客看到新、马、印三国风景。

　　据发展商指出，这个计划中的世界级旅游景点并不是一般的 “摩天观景轮”（observation wheel），也不是主题公园里头的一般摩天轮（ferris wheel），因为它高达170公尺（约45层楼），建造技术难度很高。

　　摩天观景轮还将发射强力激光，为新加坡夜空创造辉煌色彩，同时一次可把多达800乘客徐徐送上高空，有如下一代巨型珍宝飞机，让人享受亚洲前所未有的37分钟高空观景色的乐趣。

　　摩天巨轮共有32个舱室，每个可容纳25名乘客。这项旅游业景点首年估计可吸引250万人次游客，并可在一年里为旅游业取得最少9400万元收益。

dont forget the commercial space..

Jones Lang LaSalle website said that the Singapore Flyer has a gross building area of approximately 16,000 sq m but didn't mention "net rent-able area".

The papers today mention "with a mall".....yiaks.

Not sure how they get the 2.5 million visitors from?
Does it include "Good Brothers" during the Chinese seven months? :hahaha:

Not sure how they get the 2.5 million visitors from?
Does it include "Good Brothers" during the Chinese seven months? :hahaha:

Choy.......:bash:

Including those would be billions......:lol: :jk: :jk: :jk:

The official opening date should be 1st day of Chinese 7 month
Win already!!!!! :hahaha:

That's why they said that official opening date will be on 3rd quarter of 2007.

The official opening date should be 1st day of Chinese 7 month
Win already!!!!! :hahaha:

That's why they said that official opening date will be on 3rd quarter of 2007.

That would be official "opening" date for something else also.....:eek::lol: :jk:

what?

The Singapore Flyer doesnt even have that wow factor anymore...its has been relegated to second place.

Not sure how they get the 2.5 million visitors from?
Does it include "Good Brothers" during the Chinese seven months? :hahaha:


Choy, choy, choy!!!!! :bash::bash::bash:


If it is true we might run into billions.... :jk:jk:jk::jk::jk:jk:



Perhaps the wheel looks like something? :lol: :jk:

Good, they will have some unknown Guest of honours in the night.
Free some more, guest that don't need to eat but volunteer to attend.

Have an empty row of seats for them.

Wait, with Abu Dhabi and Shanghai building theirs, I don't see the point of Singapore building her's anymore, I mean, we ARE proposing the world's THIRD tallest ferris wheel.