Builders could be 'dancing on ice' soon if a planned private sector proposal to build a full-sized ice rink in Co Down gets the go-ahead.

The initiative seeks to build at Bridgewater Park, Banbridge and has already been given the backing of Banbridge District Council.

The investors behind this project - Murdock Group of Newry and Innovative Leisure Systems Limited of Dundalk - attended a meeting of the Leisure and Development Committee earlier this month during which they presented their proposal to develop the Banbridge Ice Dome.

Councillors welcomed the opportunity to learn about this major investment that is guaranteed to boost the district's tourism potential and enhance its leisure product.

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The proposal entails building an ice rink that meets the International Hockey League size requirements and has a normal capacity of 300 seats or 700 standing.

However, the planned is for the dome's capacity to have the ability to increase to 1,400 when hosting international ice shows.

It is envisaged that the Banbridge Ice Dome will become a major tourist attraction, offering an extensive programme of leisure activities, including hockey games, public skating sessions, teenage discos, theme nights and fashion shows.

Investors are also keen that the new ice rink will be used to increase participation in ice hockey and build on the achievements of the Belfast Giants.

It was explained that a semi-permanent building would initially be constructed on a site at Bridgewater Park with a view to testing demand before providing a more permanent structure that would offer a wider range of leisure activities such as indoor surfing.

An order has already been placed with a Finnish company to supply the ice rink.

It is anticipated that the Banbridge Ice Dome will open in November subject to planning approval.

(BMcC/GK)