Plans to bring back the ‘magical’ ice rink to Edinburgh Christmas markets have been formally submitted by organisers.
The popular festive celebrations, which take place every year in the capital, are set to return after being cancelled last year due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Under the proposals, the markets would return between November 19 and January 2, and would feature 62 trading stalls and four attractions, including the big wheel towering into the Edinburgh skyline.
And, after a three-year absence, the much-loved ice-skating rink is set to return in a brand-new location due to popular demand.
Festival organisers, Underbelly, have confirmed that the firm favourite attraction will now be located at the westerly end of George Street between Charlotte Square and Castle Street.
Charlie Wood and Ed Bartlam of Underbelly said staff have been working ‘tirelessly’ to deliver a new look festival with the same ‘unforgettable experiences’ and are looking to ensure everyone who attends, that covid safety measures will be in place.
They said: “We want to make visitors feel safe and at ease at all times.
“It’s been a very challenging couple of years for everyone but our proposed plans for Christmas are designed not only to support economic recovery in the city centre, driving footfall to both the East and the West end of the City, but to also bring some much-needed cheer and happiness to both residents and visitors.”
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With the new locations being revealed, the updated festival will be incorporating West Princes Street Gardens and George street into the festive mix. The inclusion of more locations is an effort to encourage spread out crowds across the city centre.
A further 15 stall concessions and 11 attractions including a Christmas Tree Maze and a Santa’s Grotto on display this year at the new locations.
already granted planning application for Edinburgh’s Christmas at East Princes Street Gardens and The Mound.
Planning applications for the East Princes Street Gardens and The Mound section of the festival have already been granted, but the application for the new areas in West Princes Street Gardens and George Street is yet to be approved.
More information is expected to be announced shortly, but organisers said they usually recieve confirmation of submitted plans within 28 days.
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