Tourism leaders are proposing that Wearside has its own version of the London Eye.

The idea for the Sunderland Eye is part of a strategy for 2003 drawn up for Northumbria Tourist Board.

The big-wheel attraction would be based on the design of the model in the capital and provide views across the city.

Now people in the city are being asked to let the tourist board know whether they think the creation should be built.

Growth catalyst

Northumbria Tourist Board chief executive Peter Sloyan said it could help regenerate the city.

"If the Eye idea went ahead we would place it on the banks of the River Wear, where people could see the Winter Gardens, the seafront, and other attractions.

"It might be a catalyst to grow Sunderland as a destination to compete with Newcastle and Gateshead."

Mr Sloyan said if the wheel idea went ahead it would not necessarily have to be 450-feet tall.