ORGANISERS of York’s annual ice rink are pressing ahead with plans to relocate to the city’s Designer Outlet – and have revealed the rink is set to be 50 per cent bigger.

Lunchbox Theatrical Productions has ended its battle to return to the Eye of York this Christmas, following strong and continuing opposition from officials at the nearby crown court.

Now it says it is looking to put on its most spectacular event so far at the outlet, situated just off the A19 and A64 at Fulford.

The Press exclusively revealed earlier this month that planning and licensing applications had been submitted to City of York Council for the site.

Rink producer James Cundall said today he was excited to have found a potential new home that would allow them to make huge improvements.

“This year, we plan to have a 900sqm rink, which is 50 per cent bigger than the previous rink on the Eye of York, and we will have space to add lots of festive touches,” he said.

“A bigger bar and café and skate marquees will also make visiting The Ice Factor an even more pleasurable experience.”

James Lindsay, centre manager at York Designer Outlet said: “We’re thrilled at the possibility of hosting one of York’s top Christmas attractions at our centre this year.”

York council leader Andrew Waller said the proposal was “great news for the city.” He said that while the applications were still being reviewed, he was positive everyone would want to see the Christmas attraction return.

“I fully support this move though am very sad to see the event not return to the city centre.”

If the ice rink plans succeed, it would also provide easier access to the festive attraction for Selby residents, and Coun Steve Shaw-Wright, leader of Selby District Council’s Labour group, said: “It’s become part of the Christmas event scene and people from this area travel to it, but while the city centre location was nice and pretty, it did cause traffic problems for visitors coming from outside York.

“Being at the Designer Outlet would be a bonus for people from Selby because it’s closer to the area and there are regular bus services, so it would be a win-win situation for everybody. I think it would mean more people would use it because it’s a great attraction and this move would hopefully keep it going for years to come.”

Subject to permission, the Ice Factor will be open from November 20 from 9.30am until 9.15pm, daily except Christmas Day, until January 9.

Tickets for the one-hour session will cost £9.50 for adults and £8.50 for children and concessions.

Further details are available at theicefactor.co.uk or by phoning 01653 619169.