Damage has been left behind in Bournemouth’s Lower Gardens after a winter ice rink operated without planning permission over the Christmas period.
Green Party representatives have criticised what they describe as a failure of planning after the temporary attraction closed, with parts of the gardens still in poor condition weeks later, despite early signs of new growth in some areas.
A planning application for the event, including an ice rink, alpine chalet and games stall, was submitted to BCP Council but never approved. Officers had recommended refusal after biodiversity issues emerged, triggered by the removal of a cherry tree on the site.
The proposal was referred to the eastern planning committee in November, after the rink had already opened, with members allowing more time for the applicant to address biodiversity net gain concerns. The event was allowed to continue operating while discussions continued.
The application was withdrawn in early January without returning to committee, meaning no planning conditions could be enforced. Councillor Sara Armstrong said this represented a failure to protect a historic public space and called for the process to be reviewed through overview and scrutiny.
BCP Council says it is reviewing next steps and has confirmed a reinstatement agreement is in place, with the operator covering the cost of restoring the gardens.
A summer skate event in 2025 was refused just weeks before it was due to begin because the Council said the grass would be affected.
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