THE Waterfront ferris wheel, which has been dubbed the Jersey Eye because of its similarity to the wheel that is so prominent on the London skyline, is not to everyone’s liking.

That is not surprising. It is understandable that some people will object to their view being even partially obstructed by a network of girders in the sky. It was also predictable that some would be opposed to an edifice so redolent of the fairground being put up in such a prominent position.

On the other hand, the wheel’s simple, elegant shape makes it at least as appealing as most other new structures in the area. Moreover, even the most ardent objectors must concede that the Eye is a temporary structure and that, come the end of the summer season, we shall soon forget that it was ever there.

In the meantime, the big wheel should bring pleasure to many – some of them Islanders, others our valued visitors – though it has apparently not so far been a great commercial success. Also, strange as it may seem in the context of an attraction designed with pleasure in mind, this latest addition to the list of things to do in Jersey may also spur important insights.

To begin with, the Eye offers people a new aerial perspective on St Helier, the Waterfront and much of the rest of the Island. With a degree of leisure unavailable in an aircraft landing or taking off, it is possible to study and consider the way in which our community is developing and its urban areas expanding.

The Eye is also equivalent to the profiles which developers sometimes have to erect to indicate how planned buildings will make an impact on the area where they are to be built. It is a see-through structure, but we would do well to remember that solid blocks of a similar height would not share this attribute.

Finally, even those who are disinclined to admire the big wheel or even see it as a blot on the landscape must take their hats off to Paul Talbot, the man principally responsible for bringing it to the Island. Initially, many will have scoffed at his idea, calling it impractical, but he has seen the project through with rare determination and clear aptitude for organisation. On those grounds alone, the enterprise deserves greater good fortune than it has so far achieved.