‘Jersey on Ice’, the temporary ice rink sited at Weighbridge Square over the Christmas and New Year period proved so successful, organisers Jersey Development Company have purchased the rink to ensure it can return later this year.
Over the three-month operating period Jersey on Ice hosted 45,000 visitors. The participants varied widely in age, ranging from the youngest three-year-old skater to the oldest participant at 98 years old.
Jersey Development Company (JDC) took on the challenge within a six-week timeframe to successfully orchestrate the procurement, installation, and operation of Jersey’s first ice rink since 2019. ‘Jersey on Ice’ was opened to the public on Friday 17 November 2023 and closed its doors on Sunday 18 February 2024.
JDC provided free admission to all primary schools, resulting in 1,990 young children enjoying complimentary skating sessions. Additionally, secondary schools were offered half-price tickets, leading to 2,805 students benefiting from the offer.
In an effort to support children’s charities, ten organisations participated in designated sessions on the rink free of charge. Specifically, selected Neurodiverse events were organised, proving to be immensely popular and successful in engaging the community. Irrespective of age or disability, many other groups and organisations were warmly welcomed. JDC also made the decision to allocate 50 pence from every full price ticket sale to charity.
The initiative raised £20,000, which in due course will be equally shared amongst five local charities.
Lee Henry, CEO of Jersey Development Company, said: “Following a suggestion from Deputy Lucy Stephenson to re-introduce a Christmas ice-rink, we undertook a challenge within a limited timeframe to procure not only an ice rink, but also a sufficiently large marquee to accommodate the Weighbridge rink.
“The installation was delayed by Storm Ciarán in November, but the team successfully overcame the obstacles, and as planned, we opened our doors to the public on Friday, 17 November 2023. We took the decision to extend the rink’s duration beyond the Christmas holidays, concluding at the end of the recent February half-term.
“The team implemented various activities at the rink such as DJ Disco sessions, Curling, Ice Hockey and special visits from Santa and his elves on Christmas Eve. Children’s favourite Super-Hero and Ice Princess also came to visit the Ice Rink every other Sunday. Despite adverse weather conditions that led to temporary closures for safety reasons, we were delighted that the attraction brought so much enjoyment to the broader community. I express my gratitude to the whole team and everyone involved for their dedication and hard work, contributing to the success of this event for everyone’s enjoyment.”
