THE Christmas ice rink which has now opened in Bournemouth has yet to obtain planning permission.

An application is due to be heard by Bournemouth’s planning board next month having been ‘called in’ by town centre councillor David Smith for discussion.

He said the attraction, located in the Lower Gardens, was of sufficient importance to merit discussion by councillors rather than simply a delegated decision by planning officers.

“We believe the ice rink is a very positive attraction for the town over the Christmas period,” said Cllr Smith.

“It is very popular with residents and visitors and we get lots of positive feedback.”

Planning officers have yet to finish and publish a report with their recommendation for councillors.

This year’s ice rink, operated by property firm THAT Group in conjunction with Bournemouth Town Centre Business Improvement District (BID), is larger than previous examples situated in the listed Gardens.

Last year’s rink measured 16m x 30m and was intended for 150 skaters, while this year’s 20m x 35m rink can host 230 skaters. It is set to remain in place until January 10.

The Lower Gardens Trust board was told last month that in previous years the rink - operated last year by the That Group - has never made a profit.

Yesterday, this year’s first skaters were putting the rink through its paces.

Nicole Kynast, a 22-year-old waitress from Charminster, said: “Last year the ice rink was really full, so I think it’s better now that the rink is bigger”

Hannah Wright, 29, a marketing assistant from Parkstone, said: “It was my daughter’s first time on the ice and she enjoyed it for a little bit. It’s great because they do a toddler time, so they don’t get bombarded by everyone else.”

Shaun Denham, 19, and Beth Reynold, 20, were visiting Bournemouth from their home in the Isle of Wight where they work in retail.

Miss Reynolds said: “I think it’s really good. A lot of places don’t have it and I’ve never been on one before.”

Former professional figure skater Sylvia Allison, from Leicester, said: “It’s brilliant for the people who want to have a go.”