Somerset House ice rink makers create new skating area

A company that has made ice rinks for ITV's Dancing on Ice and London's Somerset House has created a new skating area in Northampton.

The 14m x 22m rink, funded by the local authority, was launched at the town's Market Square and will be open to the public until 4 January 2026.

The attraction is the third big event to be held in the refurbished market, after Diwali celebrations and Northamptonshire Day.

Mark Arnull, leader of the Reform UK-controlled West Northamptonshire Council, said the rink was "impressive" and hoped it brought the "community together".

The Market Square underwent a £13.5m refurbishment before reopening last year, with the council signing off a £1m overspend on the project last month.

Arnull said "we've heard the negative news stories on what the Market Square costs", but the ice rink was an example of "using the space and getting a return on the investment".

He added the rink was something "residents can be proud of".

The ice rink was designed and installed by Iskate, a company that has worked all over the world and at major events, including the Tokyo Olympics.

Ian Moynes, the rink's build manager, said installation started in November and "underfloor heating in reverse" was used to form the ice.

He added that the rink had "aluminium pipes" and "glycol", which allows the water to freeze.

The ice rink is located next to the existing stalls at the market.

Steve Reid, a market trader, said: "I don't think anything like this has ever been done".

He added that he "takes his hat off" to the council for the project.

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