Plans for the installation of a temporary 40m (131.2ft)-high observation wheel in the Castlegate area of Aberdeen have been given the nod of approval by the local authority.

Aberdeen City Council (ACC) has approved the proposals put forward by Great City Attractions, which will own and operate the wheel located between the Mercat Cross and the corner of King Street and Castle Street. Operating costs for the wheel, which will boast 30 pods each capable of accommodating eight people, will be funded by Great City Attractions and will remain in place for a six-month period.

ACC's vice convener of enterprise, planning and infrastructure, Callum McCaig, said: "The observation wheel will be a real focal point which will bring people into the area and will give people the chance to have a real panoramic view of Aberdeen. "This is something that's really positive. It's only for six months, so any shortcomings which may arise from it will be temporary, but I think the benefits could last for some time after the wheel has rolled away."

Great City Attractions also operates observation wheels at a number of sites across the UK, including Manchester, Belfast and Sheffield.