Brighton & Hove’s much-loved ice rink is set to return in 2027 in a brand-new location at the very heart of the city.
The council has been working with the operator Laine Ltd to develop plans for a long-term future for the seasonal attraction, with the Old Steine identified as the preferred location from 2027 onwards.
The Old Steine, which has been revitalised through the Valley Gardens project, will provide a central setting for festive skating and seasonal events, helping to bring the space to life during the winter months while supporting local shops, restaurants and attractions.
Councillor David McGregor, Cabinet member for Economy, Culture, Heritage and Tourism, said:
“We know how much residents and visitors enjoy the ice rink, so we’re delighted to be welcoming it back in a new venue at the Old Steine from 2027.
“The move gives us the opportunity to build a long-term future for the rink in a location that is accessible, sustainable and right at the heart of the city centre.
“We’re looking forward to working with the operator, Laine Ltd, to bring those plans to life.
“We know people will miss the rink this winter, but we’ve explored all options and there’s no suitable location that can provide the space, infrastructure and renewable power supply needed to operate the attraction safely and sustainably this year.
“There’ll still be plenty of festive events taking place across the city, including making use of the newly created public space at Valley Gardens.”
Shella Parkin of Laine Ltd, said:
“We are proud of the benefits the ice rink has brought to the city, not least the millions in annual visitor spend from skaters who then go on to eat, drink and Christmas shop in Brighton, as well as the joy it has brought to so many people since 2010.
“While we won’t be operating the rink in Brighton this Christmas, we’re pleased to have agreement in principle for a new long-term home from 2027 onwards.
“Ice rinks are power-hungry, so we have proudly chosen not to run off diesel generators for many years now. Mains power enables us to run off a renewable tariff but unfortunately, we haven’t found a venue with sufficient electrical capacity for 2026 and have made the difficult decision to stand the rink down for one year.
“We are sad to disappoint the thousands for whom the rink has become an important part of their Christmas tradition, but we’re looking forward to returning to an exciting new venue for future festive seasons.”
While the ice rink will be taking a break this year, there will still be plenty of festive activities for residents and visitors to enjoy across Brighton & Hove.
The city’s Christmas programme also includes the return of the popular Brighton & Hove Buses Santa Bus, festive journeys on the Volk’s Electric Railway Santa Express, seasonal events and exhibitions at the Royal Pavilion and museums, the Artists Open Houses winter programme, pantomimes and family shows, as well as concerts and live entertainment at venues including Brighton Dome and the Brighton Centre.
from BHCC news
