ORGANISERS of the annual temporary ice rink in the Bournemouth Lower Gardens are proposing a raft of changes to the event this year.

THIS Event Co, a part of THAT Group, has applied to BCP Council for permission to build one larger rink by removing the smaller one while also separating the bar and skate hire areas.

It said the changes would allow the rink to fit in more closely with the Christmas Tree Wonderland as well as “accommodate demand” from its users.

With the half term taking place a week later than normal, the firm is proposing to begin installation of the rink earlier than usual on October 19 so that the path through the Lower Gardens can be open in time for the school holidays.

Opening to the public on Thursday, November 14, the rink will close on January 5 before the structure is dismantled over the following nine days.

“We will create a magical festive atmosphere with themed lighting of the rink and surrounding trees, tying in with Christmas Tree Wonderland,” its event management plan for the year says.

“Changes for this year include a slightly larger ice rink to accommodate demand, along with the return of our very popular SKATE path loop.”

It said the skate hire area and bar would be separated with a new chalet also being added to the latter.

“All of our design changes have been thought out to make for a much-improved customer experience,” the plan adds.

In a bid to reduce the damage the rink causes to the grass, it said it would stop using the lights beneath the decking and use metal trackways to move equipment rather than wood pallets.

A fee is set to be agreed between the council and THIS Event Co for the cost of returfing the area after the rink is dismantled. Work would be carried out by council parks staff.

Planning officers will consider whether to allow the changes in the coming weeks.