Provision of a temporary ice rink complex in Cheltenham

Description

As part of the town's response and economic recovery to the Covid-19 pandemic, following Cabinet approval in September 2021, Cheltenham Borough Council took on and led the delivery of Cheltenham's Christmas ice rink. The 500 m2 undercover rink, which was located in Imperial Gardens, ran for 45 days from 18th November 2021 to 2nd January 2022. It welcomed a total of 43,563 skaters, making a significant contribution to Cheltenham's festive offering and providing a much needed boost to town centre footfall and trading after such a challenging period. Footfall exceeded even pre-pandemic levels, retailers reported record takings and the car parks were the busiest they have been for two years. It is anticipated that a 2022 ice rink will be operated in a similar fashion, with the Authority underwriting the costs in delivering the event, whilst retaining all revenue from ticket sales, sponsorship and ancillary streams. The Authority would work closely with the successful Tenderer and other partners to deliver a commercially successful event for all parties and an attractive and coherent Christmas in Cheltenham experience, alongside a market, lights switch on and other activities.