Supporting the London Eye’s 25th Anniversary Renovation with Modular Pontoons

Supporting the London Eye’s 25th Anniversary Renovation with Modular Pontoons

At National Pontoon, we take pride in supporting some of the UK’s most high-profile infrastructure projects, and this week was no exception.

As part of the London Eye’s 25th anniversary upgrade, our modular steel pontoon systems were deployed to support the complex removal and transport of the attraction’s iconic capsules. Working on behalf of Livett’s, one of London’s most experienced marine operations specialists, this unique project took place in the heart of the capital, with the world watching.

A Floating Solution for an Iconic Landmark

The London Eye, standing 135 metres tall on the South Bank of the River Thames, is one of the most recognisable features of the London skyline. To mark 25 years of operation, the attraction is undergoing a comprehensive refurbishment — including the removal and upgrade of all 32 of its passenger capsules.

To achieve this, each 10-tonne capsule must be safely removed and transported down the River Thames. That’s where National Pontoon came in.

Our modular steel pontoons provided a safe, stable, and adaptable working platform for the capsule removal process. These pontoons were positioned directly on the Thames, adjacent to the London Eye, allowing specialist teams to load and secure the capsules for onward transit.

Partnering with Livett’s Marine

The project was delivered in close collaboration with Livett’s, a leading marine logistics company operating along the River Thames. With decades of experience in complex river operations, Livett’s were tasked with managing the capsule transport — and trusted National Pontoon to provide the floating infrastructure needed to get the job done.

You can find out more about Livett’s services at livetts.co.uk.

In the Spotlight: Featured in the Daily Mail

The high-profile nature of this project caught national media attention, including a full feature in the Daily Mail. With stunning visuals of the capsule being floated down the Thames, the article showcased the logistical scale and engineering precision required for such a delicate operation.

“It’s not every day that you see a capsule from Britain’s most recognisable attraction come floating down The Thames.”

— Stuart Watson, Director at UK Loco (the engineering firm now refurbishing the capsule)

Engineering Detail and Safety First

To execute this task safely and efficiently, our team worked closely with on-site engineers and marine coordinators. The pontoons were configured to accommodate:

• High point loads, including crane lifting operations
• Safe personnel access for the 12-member detachment team
• Secure tie-down areas for the capsule during loading and transit
• Environmental protection measures to minimise river impact

As always, our team provided full installation, certification, and safety documentation as part of the delivery.

Why Modular Steel Pontoons?

This project is a perfect example of why modular steel pontoons remain the go-to solution for complex infrastructure works. Their key benefits include:

• High load-bearing capacity for heavy plant, machinery, or structural loads
• Custom configuration to match unique environments like the River Thames
• Quick deployment and repositioning during multi-phase projects
• Enhanced safety and stability in tidal or fast-moving waters

Whether it’s supporting bridge repair works, event infrastructure, or cultural landmarks like the London Eye, our pontoons adapt to the task.

Keeping the Capital Moving

Even as the London Eye undergoes its renovation, the landmark remains operational. A temporary cage has replaced the first removed capsule, maintaining the structural integrity of the wheel. As capsules continue to be removed and refurbished, National Pontoon will remain ready to support with ongoing platform requirements along the Thames.

With a completion date set for early 2029, this project is a milestone in London’s modern history — and we’re proud to be playing a part in it.

Learn More About Our Infrastructure and Marine Capabilities

If you’re involved in a marine engineering, cultural landmark, or public infrastructure project, National Pontoon offers the trusted expertise and certified systems you need.

We work nationwide — from city centres like London to remote islands in the Scottish Highlands.

For more information, please visit our Commercial Pontoon Solutions page or Contact Us Directly.