Plans for return of ice rink and Ferris wheel

The rink has been a festive feature in the city since 2017

Christmas plans are being drawn up for Leicester city centre to host an ice rink and Ferris wheel.

Applications have been submitted for Jubilee Square to host the annual Ferris wheel from 8 November until January, and a skating rink from December 5 into the New Year.

Around 42,000 people used the ice rink last winter, said the council.

It has been a feature in the city’s Christmas programme since 2017, said applicant 11th Hour Ice Ltd.

According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, the firm said in its application statement: “Year on year this attraction has grown and is now very much beloved by, and popular with, the residents of Leicester and wider area and now forms part of their festive traditions.

“This annual attraction has proved, through feedback from local businesses, that the ice rink generates significant economic value in the city centre, with more people coming to the city to shop, eat and enjoy the activities on offer.”

A late night New Year's Eve skate is also planned

If approved, the Ferris wheel will run from Friday 8 November until Sunday 5 January.

The rink would open on Thursday 5 December until the same date in January, with skating daily from 10:00 to 22:00 GMT, apart from Christmas Day.

Documents also suggest a late-night skate session on New Year’s Eve.

There would be a period of construction and dismantlement either side of these dates should the applications be approved.