The City of Perth in Western Australia has given its backing to the development of a London Eye-style observation wheel for the foreshore.

The 42-gondola, 60m-high wheel – half the height of the London Eye – would revolve once every 12 minutes.

While the scheme, put forward by private company World Tourist Attractions, still needs formal planning approval from the West Australian Planning Commission, Perth councillors have voted in support of the proposals.

If approved, the attraction could be operational later this year and would remain in place for two years.

The wheel would form part of a wider development of the foreshore area.

Perth Lord Mayor Lisa Scaffidi said: “There are some very big plans in progress for the foreshore, but the council hopes that its support of the proposed Observation Wheel, which all going well could be in operation by November, will provide a more immediate incentive for people to get more involved with the Foreshore.

“A temporary structure such as the Observation Wheel is a great way to engage people with the Swan River sooner rather than later.”

The council will provide the site to World Tourist Attractions for just a nominal fee due to the benefits it will bring to the area in terms of increased visitation.