Southern Star deconstruction almost complete

Deconstruction of Melbourne's Southern Star Observation Wheel is almost complete.

A spokesperson for ING Real Estate recently advised that all the outer spokes have now been detached from the former 120-metre high structure, and that the inner-rim should be dismantled by Christmas.

Reconstruction work is anticipated to start next year.

Southern Star closed in January after only 40 days of operations when cracks were discovered in the steel. The cracks resulted from problems in the wheel's original design.

Sanoyas Hishino Meisho Corporation, the designers and manufacturers of the Southern Star, will carry out all works under the original warranty with independent engineers signing off on all procedures.

Photo: Ashley Irvine