The Southbank Wheel has been given permanent status after more than 20 years

You’d be forgiven for assuming that the London Eye was always meant to be a fixture on the capital’s skyline. The observation wheel has dominated the Southbank for over two decades, becoming as familiar to the London landscape as St Paul’s, Tower Bridge and the Houses of Parliament.

But incredibly, until recently, Eye was still operating under a temporary license that required renewals every few years. Well, that’s no longer the case. This week Lambeth Council finally granted permanent planning permission for the giant wheel. Joy!

The move isn’t exactly surprising. The Eye is not so much a passing pop-up attraction as an inevitable part of London life in the 21st century. Giving tourists an Everest-like height perspective for their selfies, the metal monster has woven itself into the fabric of the city.

Crucially, making the Eye’s status permanent allows its owners to finally go ahead with much-needed renovation plans, ensuring that the humble big wheel can continue to provide awe-inspiring Instagram appeal for years to come.

The permanent provision of the Eye is also a signature sign of the attraction’s role as a hugely popular attraction supporting businesses across the vibrant Southbank area. The council’s approval includes requirements that one per cent of the Eye’s annual turnover be redirected into maintaining the public spaces around it.

So, raise a flute of the finest effervescent to London’s tallest big observation wheel, becoming an eternal fixture! After more than 20 years as a postcard presence on the skyline, we can help drink in those world-class panoramic views forever (at least until sea level makes it a municipal gondola ride away).

Have you seen that you can now rent out disused subway stations for parties and private events?

ICYMI: Kew Gardens was full of amazing outdoor sculptures.

Stay tuned: register with us free Time Out London newsletter for the best in town, straight to your inbox.