Whitehaven's controversial ice rink has closed permanently.

There have been numerous issues with the Castle Park attraction this week that have resulted in its closure.

Whitehaven town councillors were informed today (Wednesday) that mayor Raymond Gill has decided to close the rink permanently.

He temporarily shut the attraction on Monday amid health and safety concerns. Coun Gill said that over the last two weeks the ice rink had shifted from its original position. As a precaution, he took the decision to close the attraction temporarily. A joiner inspected the rink that evening and pegged it back to the ground. Fences around the rink were also secured.

The rink was due to reopen on Tuesday, but stayed shut due to a lack of first aid cover.

Town councillors were informed today that following talks with first aid providers, Coun Gill had decided to shut the rink altogether. He added that members will be given a full update on Friday.

The idea of opening a rink over the festive period has been fraught with controversy since it was first proposed.

St Nicholas’ Gardens was the first venue suggested for the rink as part of Whitehaven Town Council’s Winter Wonderland programme of events. But the town council then announced the venue had changed to Castle Park.

The council was criticised at the time for not applying to Copeland Council sooner for the planning permission for Castle Park.

The application was only made at the end of October. Copeland councillors gave the go-ahead for attraction at a meeting in November – just three days before it was set to open.

It had been due to open for six weeks over the Christmas period. The council funded the ice rink, and was due to recoup any income from customers.