Westminster city council is pushing forward plans for a permanent ice rink and leisure complex at the heart of Marble Arch, W1.
After trialling the ice rink for the past two years, the council has instructed Davis Coffer Lyons to source operators and sponsors for a new permanent attraction at the 50,000 sq ft (4,645 sq m) island site fronting Park Lane and Marble Arch itself.
It is seeking an operator to take a three-year licence for the 7,500 sq ft (696 sq m) ice rink, which will be run from November to February each year, in line with the present planning consent.
Westminster has also obtained planning consent for a 3,000 sq ft restaurant at the site. Davis Coffer Lyons’ agent Josh Leon, who is handling the search, said: “It is Westminster’s preference to have the ice rink installed this year and leave the restaurant site undeveloped for now.
“There will also be a variety of kiosk-style food and drink outlets surrounding the rink, as an element of catering is essential and provides a good source of additional income.”
However, the restaurant building is expected to become permanent in the future and operate throughout the year.
Leon said: “We have already received enormous interest and are confident we can find the right balance for this key site.”
The ice rink attracted 60,000 visitors between November 2003 and February 2004, rivalling longstanding attractions at Somerset House and Broadgate.
References: EGi News 02/08/04
