Cool Coast Ice Rink, the South Coast’s largest indoor ice-skating rink, will be introducing relaxed skating sessions from Wednesday 10 January.

Organised in response to customer feedback received last year, relaxed ice-skating sessions will run without loud music and with the rink’s main hall and festoon lighting switched on, providing a calmer, relaxed experience for individuals.

The sessions may benefit those with additional needs or sensory requirements, such as sensitivities to loud noises or limited vision, as well as those with learning difficulties or who are neurodivergent. Younger children may also benefit from a quieter experience.

Relaxed skating sessions will take place on Wednesdays from 4pm-5:30pm and Saturdays from 11am-12:30pm between Wednesday 10 January to Sunday 18 February. Open to all, bookings can be made online at the official website coolcoasticerink.co.uk

Wheelchair users are welcome on the ice across both relaxed and standard skate sessions. Accessible skate tickets, which include free skate access for one carer, are also available, further details can be found online.

Cool Coast Ice Rink is located at and operated by Bournemouth International Centre (BIC). Bournemouth International Centre is operated by registered charity BH Live in partnership with BCP Council.

Steve Turner, BH Live’s Associate Director of Venues said:

“Cool Coast Ice Rink is already a much-anticipated attraction enjoyed by both beginners and seasoned skaters, and we’re really pleased to be able to deliver a more accessible ice-skating experience. Based on feedback received last year, we hope the relaxed ice-skating sessions will offer a welcoming and enjoyable experience for all.”

Councillor Millie Earl, Deputy Leader of Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council and Portfolio Holder for Connected Communities said:

“It’s important our attractions, where possible, are accessible to all. The introduction of relaxed skating sessions and a quieter skating experience is a great idea. I hope it’s well received by the BCP community.”

Pre-booking is recommended to avoid disappointment. For further information and booking, visit coolcoasticerink.co.uk. Cool Coast Ice Rink is open until Sunday 18 February 2024.