Plans to establish a new 40m (131.2ft) wheel attraction in the centre of Middlesbrough, north east England, have been delayed after it was revealed that a suitable wheel is not yet available.

World Tourist Attractions (WTA) is behind the proposals for the attraction, which will be situated in the town's Centre Square and will feature 30 glass-sided observation pods capable of accommodating five people each. Middlesbrough Council approved planning permission for the scheme on 9 April, which will see the wheel remain in place for an initial six months at no cost to the council before a decision is made on whether renew its stay for a longer period.

However, the council has now confirmed that the attraction will not be in place for the foreseeable future, although it has reassured local residents that efforts are continuing to ensure that the scheme becomes a reality. Mayor Ray Mallon said: "It's just the kind of attraction people want to see in Centre Square and will further cement the town's growing reputation as a focal point both in the region and further afield.

"Unfortunately, WTA has informed us that for technical reasons, they are unable to provide a suitable wheel for us in the immediate future. While this is obviously disappointing, both the council and WTA remain committed to this project and we will work together to ensure a wheel can be installed at the earliest opportunity." WTA currently operates similar attractions at a range of worldwide locations, including Belfast, Brisbane, Brussels, Glasgow, London, Manchester, Paris, Perth, Singapore and Windsor.