CHRISTMAS is almost here and the organiser behind the ice rink in Bournemouth’s Lower Gardens has applied to the council to bring back the popular attraction.
THIS Event Co is hoping to open the ice skating rink in the town centre from November 16 until January 3.
Work to install the fitting is expected to start at the end of this month, October 30, before SKATE Bournemouth moves in.
THIS Event said in a supporting statement it hopes this year’s event will bring in more people than ever before.
It said: “Previous year's goal of attracting 30,000 skaters was reached and so this year the event hopes to be even more popular, drawing nearer 40,000 to the site.
“The layout comprises a series of raised, self-supporting platforms and structures. It includes a large main ice rink with skate path and a central café bar and skate exchange marquee.”
The ice rink will be open 10am to 11pm every day, with a family ticket costing £47, a single adult costing £14.50, and a child ticket will be £12.50.
Elsewhere in the town centre, fears the Christmas spirit will be lost due to the council axing lights have been quashed.
BCP Council announced earlier this week it would be axing lights and decorations in the town centre, other than Christmas Tree Wonderland, to combat struggling finances.
However, following a backlash, the town centre business improvement district stepped in and said it will fund the lights to attract shoppers to the town.
Paul Kinvig, chief executive of the BID, said: “We will be doing everything we can to bring a vibrant and colourful festive presence.”
Returning this year on November 17 will be the Alpine markets featuring Name of Thrones, The Bournemouth Brownie Co, and The Yorkshire Pudding Wrap Co.
Churros Kings, Hog Roast, Christmas Crêpes, Dorset Chilli, and Old English Fudge will also be returning this year.
Simon Brooks, founder and director of Seventa Events which operates the markets, said last year’s event has been “successful” for traders when it came to revenue and footfall.
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