Police Chief Backs Ice Rink Idea

A POLICE chief has backed plans for Burnley’s first ever town centre ice rink. Burnley Council is set to announce plans to site a synthetic skating surface where Parker Lane meets St James Street in a bid to turn the town into a New York-style winter wonderland during December. However, yesterday, the man leading the scheme admitted police had yet to sign up to the proposal after concerns the frink could potentially become a magnet for yobs. Market manager Colin Hill said police bosses had failed to rubber stamp the ice rink idea but he had received “strong indications” they would do so. Insp Jes Holland, from Burnley Police, said senior officers had held talks with Burnley Council and their fears over anti-social behaviour had now been allayed. He added: “We are fully supportive of any venture that supports Burnley as a place that encourages people to utilise the town centre. “Should something problematic happen in the future, we will work with the council on it.” It is understood Burnley’s ice rink will be in place from Saturday, December 6, for four weeks, subject to the council finding a private company to install and run the venture. It follows similar outdoor skating sites in Manchester and Preston. Article originally featured on www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk