LISBURN City Centre could be turned into a fabulous winter wonderland this Christmas with plans currently underway to develop an outdoor ice rink in Castle Gardens from December into the New Year.
The plan for a marquee housing the ice rink would be the last stage of the council's 400th Anniversary celebrations for Lisburn.
Lisburn Mayor, Councillor Allan Ewart.
The Mayor, Councillor Allan Ewart is supporting the plans, which were revealed at the council's Strategic Policy Committee meeting earlier this week.
Mr Ewart said that the ice rink would attract people to the city and would be "good fun" for all the family.
The plans currently being considered would incorporate the 'winter wonderland' themed ice rink into a Farmer's Market planned at Castle Gardens on December 4, which would mean visitors could enjoy a day of Christmas Shopping, visiting a variety of stalls in Castle Gardens, where an exhibition on Lisburn's 400 years would also be set up, before paying a visit to the ice rink.
Speaking about the project Mr Ewart stated: "This will draw people into Lisburn and as it will be opening into the evening it will help to boost the night time economy.
"I think it's a very good idea. It is costing £35,000 to promote, which is point three of a penny on a household and family tickets for two adults and two children will also be available."
The ice rink, which would also be used to attract school groups and families to the city, was originally proposed for Hillsborough. However, councillors suggested hosting the facility in the city centre, particularly as it would prove to be a fitting send off to the 400th Anniversary celebrations.
"We are talking about maybe having an exhibition on the 400th Anniversary, as this will be the last event of the celebrations. There are plans for food stalls and entertainment, it would be good for all the family; parents, kids, grandparents," Mr Ewart said.
Paul McCormack, the council's Economic Development Officer, said that whilst plans are not yet finalised, talks were in progress.
"The intention is to have a temporary ice rink in a covered marquee and it would extend the Christmas appeal of Lisburn to attract people into the city centre.
"Our hope is to have additional stalls linked in with the Farmer's Market on December 4, and if we can link that in then it could be of interest for other stalls and entertainment, although that would not be there every day."
Mr McCormack added: "There would be a lot of interest and attraction in the event. Plans are not yet finalised but the council are keen to support such a venture if all the plans can be organised."
