IN any public survey about the facilities that Bournemouth needs, an ice rink always comes top of the list as far as local residents are concerned.

They might get their wish. The news that Bournemouth council could be about to sign an agreement with developers to move proposals forward at Kings Park will be widely welcomed. Site investigations would be carried out and design and financing details nailed down. Outline planning consent is already in place. These things always come with some uncertainty. But there’s little doubt this is one scheme that would be a sure fire winner.