Christmas in Douglas could include an ice skating rink, if planners back an application by a local businessman.

Stephen Bradley is seeking to erect a temporary rink for the Christmas period on the former site of the Lord Street bus station.

Mr Bradley, who bought the site from the Department of Infrastructure to build a cinema, flats,, cafes, shops and hotel, said told the Courier it would allow the community to benefit from the site while his plans are on pause due to Covid-19.

The application (20/01198/B) would see the ice rink in place from the end of November through to January and would allow for some additional parking in the capital.

Mr Bradley said he hopes the ice rink also encourages more families to come to the town centre, both to use the ice rink and to support other local businesses.

He also praised the DoI for its help in the plan and said that, if approved by planners, the scheme would employ a ’significant’ number of local people.

’Let’s get it done.’ Mr Bradley added.