Preston city centre should feel magical at this time of year, with shoppers wandering through festive stalls and families heading out to enjoy seasonal attractions.
But this December, the excitement around Preston On Ice has clashed with growing frustration from local businesses who say the rink has disrupted trade and visibility on an unexpected scale.
Hosted at the covered market and organised by Preston City Council, the rink was meant to be a highlight of the city’s Christmas programme.
Instead, several traders claim it has brought noise, blocked views, melted ice, and logistical challenges that are hitting them hard during a crucial trading period.
How Are Local Businesses Being Affected by the Ice Rink?
For several traders, the impact has been immediate and significant.
Sam Thompson, owner of Mini Dunes, a coffee shop that opened in July, said he expected the rink to boost footfall. Instead, it has done the opposite.
“If I’m being honest, it’s killing us,” he said. “We’re completely blocked out of view.”
Adding to the frustration is the placement of food and drink stalls selling items similar to those offered by Mini Dunes , positioned directly in front of the café.
Nearby, Lancaster Gate landlord Steven Fludder said his pub becomes almost invisible once the rink lights are turned off.
“When the ice rink is shut down into complete darkness, my pub is blocked out of view – I’m losing money.”
He also noted that the rink’s fencing intrudes on the pavement area he pays a licence to use.
Both Mini Dunes and the Lancaster Gate have reported an influx of non-customers coming in to use their toilets, leading to extra cleaning costs and occasional confrontations when staff enforce customer-only policies.
Why Is Melting Ice Causing Further Disruption in the City Centre?
Unseasonably warm temperatures this December have added yet another layer of difficulty.
Blog Preston reported visible water running from the rink across surrounding streets, caused by melting ice. The rink has even had to close temporarily at times due to these conditions.
Organisers from Preston On Ice, along with the council, attributed this to the milder weather and said their team is working daily to maintain safe conditions for skaters.
Beyond the melting ice, noise pollution is also affecting nearby businesses.
Pound Emporium owner Javid Samli, based inside St John’s Shopping Centre, said the generator powering the rink has been relentless:
“It’s all we hear all day long. I’ve lost customers over it.”
Samli also argues that the structure blocks visibility into the shopping centre, making it harder for new shoppers to notice the stores inside.
What Has Preston City Council Said in Response to the Concerns?
Preston City Council says it has been in regular dialogue with affected businesses and the ice rink operator to find improvements.
A spokesperson explained:
“Options are being explored to move the food vendors closer to the ice rink to free up more pavement space and increase visibility for surrounding businesses.”
The council also highlighted that Preston On Ice has been a strong attraction for families and visitors, contributing to the festive atmosphere. They acknowledged the challenges caused by unusually warm weather, but reassured residents that the rink operators are making ongoing adjustments.
Additionally, the council has organised winter-themed entertainment from 11 to 31 December to enhance the festive experience around the Market, Animate, and the Preston On Ice area.
Mini Dunes owner Sam Thompson confirmed he has received a verbal apology and a small gesture of compensation through free advertising, though he feels it has done little to offset the disruption.
What Happens Next for Local Traders and the City Centre?
Some permanent market traders were previously relocated due to safety concerns and are still awaiting updates on when they may return to their original pitches on Lancaster Road. Discussions continue, with hopes of a January return once the rink is removed.
Businesses affected by Preston On Ice emphasise that clearer planning, better organisation, and earlier consultation could have prevented many of the issues they face today.
As Preston moves through the festive period, the balance between creating a lively Christmas atmosphere and supporting independent businesses remains delicate.
The council has promised changes, and local traders will be watching closely to see whether those adjustments make a meaningful difference.
For now, city centre visitors will experience both festive cheer and visible frustration,a reminder that even joyous seasonal attractions can have unintended consequences when planning misses the mark.
