A range of flags were displayed on the London Eye to represent the wide variety of countries of origin of people who live in and contribute to the success of London. These animated flags were small and moving so were not all entirely clear at every point as they gradually formed into the Union Flag.
London ushered in 2026 with a spectacular fireworks and strobe-light display that celebrated togetherness. As Big Ben struck midnight, crowds counted down in unison before erupting into cheers to welcome the New Year. The London Eye took centre stage in the incredible display, organised by the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, with towering fireworks and dramatic strobe effects. More than 12,000 fireworks and over 400 lights were used, making it the largest annual firework display in Europe.
Normally, when a large project receives planning approval, the local council can seek funding from the developer to contribute to local improvements, typically in the form of transport and services. That's in part to ensure that more people moving into an area don't overwhelm local doctors, schools and transport. The London Eye was somewhat unique in that it was an unproven, and at the time, temporary entertainment venue whose success or failure was uncertain.