Fantasy Island has officially opened a 28 metre big wheel on the former site of Leisure Island, which closed its doors in February after 20 years.

After purchasing the lease of the plot in April, Fantasy Island has installed the “Canvey Eye” as the first of a series of attractions planned for the area.

“Fantasy Island is excited to announce the arrival of a brand-new attraction at Canvey Island seafront,” said a spokesperson. “The site, formerly home to Leisure Island Fun Park, had been left derelict for some time. Recently, Fantasy Island secured the location and began an extensive clean-up, reinstating vital services such as electricity and water.”

“As part of the first phase of bringing this much-loved space back to life, we are proud to introduce the ‘Canvey Eye’ – a 28-metre-high big wheel that will offer stunning bird’s-eye views across the Canvey seafront and, on a clear day, as far as the Kent coastline.”

The Canvey Eye officially opened on 2 August, with Fantasy Island adding the ride “is set to be an exciting new chapter for the seafront and is just the beginning of the improvements planned for the area.”

Speaking on Fantasy Island’s acquisition of the plot in April, councillor Barry Palmer said: “With this new additional plot it will be a chance for them to do some wonderful things.”