Ice rink and Christmas market to return to city

The ice rink and market have been part of Gloucester's Christmas festivities for eight years

An ice rink and Christmas market will return to Gloucester Docks this year.

Gloucester Quays was granted permission from the city council to bring the festive attractions back to Gloucester Docks this winter.

While one resident raised concerns regarding noise and smell, several businesses showed their support of the rink and market, which they say are "great" for business.

The city council approved the plans at a planning committee meeting on Tuesday night.

Planning permission was first granted for such a use at Gloucester Docks in 2016, but the latest proposals seek permission for the attraction in the run-up to Christmas over the next five years.

Gloucester Quays proposed placing temporary buildings at Orchard Square, Llanthony Road, High Orchard Street, Merchants Road, Victoria Dock and Mariners Square.

Bosses claim to have considered the needs of residents and business when deciding where to locate the structures, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

The proposed use is from 28 October until 18 January annually, however, the actual activities would vary within that timeframe and also vary marginally year to year.

'Completely unreasonable'

One objector said the plans would allow the use of the site for almost three months each year until 2028.

“This duration is unreasonably long, given the inconvenience and the additional noise, smell and disruption imposed on the many residents who live at the Docks,” they said.

But several businesses have spoken of their support for the ice rink.

Ryan Fortey, owner of HeadKandy Hairdressing, said an area in front of his shop is shut during construction of the rink.

"The pleasure that it brings everyone in the city is more beneficial than the short inconvenience," he said.

Muhammad Ali, who owns Caffe Corretto, said there has been "no issue, no noise, nothing" with the Christmas festivities in the 14 years he has worked at Gloucester Docks.

And Si Ellis of Blue Bamboo Bar said the ice rink is "great" for business.

"It drives extra footfall through the area, which can only be good for all of us," Mr King said.

Councillors were assured at the planning committee meeting that there is less of a need for generators now due to the installation of electricity supplies.

They were told there is only need for one backup generator for the ice rink.