A decision to host a special “Christmas Ice Experience” at Botanic Gardens this winter has been reversed after pressure from local community groups. Last month, elected representatives at a secret Belfast City Council committee meeting approved the 11-week event for the popular South Belfast park. The event was proposed to include Christmas market stalls, an ice museum, an ice rink and slide, a big wheel, a public bar, food offerings, and decor features.
However, during a secret meeting at the full council on October 1, elected representatives agreed to return the decision back to the People and Communities Committee. Subsequently, at the People and Communities Committee meeting on October 8, councillors decided to reverse the decision and not allow the event to proceed. When asked about the decision reversal, the council stated that elected members made the decision not to proceed with the winter event at Botanic Gardens.
The council and elected members were influenced by local community groups who opposed the event. Concerns were raised about the potential closure of open spaces in the park, the continuous disruption the event would cause over three months, and the strain on infrastructure due to an influx of people. The decision to reverse the approval for the event was made in secret sessions at City Hall, possibly to avoid a repeat of the controversy surrounding a previous winter event at Botanic Gardens.
Two years ago, the Bright Lights event in Winter 2021/22 received criticism from Botanic residents, leading to a cancellation of future events by councillors. Residents complained about the noise, day and night, generated by the event, as well as the use of park space. The festival, which involved thousands of lights and Christmas music, faced backlash for its high ticket prices and impact on the local community.
In response to the concerns raised by residents and community groups, the council decided not to allow the Christmas Ice Experience event to take place at Botanic Gardens this winter. The decision reflects a growing trend of prioritizing the needs and preferences of the local community when considering events in public spaces. This move highlights the importance of community engagement and input in decision-making processes that impact the shared spaces we all cherish.