Court Lifts Seizure of Kyiv's Ferris Wheel
A court in Kyiv has revoked the seizure and operational ban on the Ferris wheel located in the city's historic Contract Square. City authorities are now seeking a legal mechanism to allow the attraction to operate safely, following its closure due to serious concerns over the poor condition of its foundational supports. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of regulating public attractions in Ukraine's capital.
In early January, the Podilskyi District Court of Kyiv ordered the wheel seized and prohibited its use. This action was prompted by a prosecutor's report received on December 26, 2025, alleging potential safety violations. An inspection revealed the attraction's metal structure was mounted on wooden beams in an unsatisfactory state. On the same day, the prosecutor's office announced suspicions of official negligence against the director of the Department of Land Resources and the director of the Department of Territorial Control of the Kyiv City State Administration (KCSA).
“The facility must operate within a legal framework and be safe for the public.”
Valentyn Mondriivskyi
Following the prosecutor's demand, the attraction was shut down, and its owner was ordered to dismantle it independently. The city is negotiating with the owner about potentially relocating the wheel to a different site. An expanded meeting involving leadership of the Podil district and representatives from relevant departments was held on March 3 to discuss the issue.
Mykhailo Budylov, representing the authorities, stated that “the powers of the Department of Land Resources and the Department of Territorial Control of the city of Kyiv do not include the dismantling of such structures.” Consequently, the city must now find a legal pathway to restore the wheel's operation, ensuring its future safety.
Future Prospects for the Attraction
The court's decision to lift the seizure is a significant step, opening the door for the wheel's potential return. However, Kyiv's authorities must still establish a legal mechanism to guarantee the attraction's safety. The ruling may indicate the city administration's willingness to take proactive steps in addressing public attraction safety, which could impact the capital's overall image and tourist appeal.
This situation underscores the critical importance of adhering to safety standards and the accountability of municipal services.