Cathedral Gardens ice rink attraction postponed until 2021 due to new restrictions

This winter’s Skate Manchester ice rink attraction, due to take place in Cathedral Gardens, has been postponed until next year.

Arena Group, the operator of Skate Manchester, say they have been carefully monitoring the evolving situation over recent weeks as well as being in close consultation with Manchester City Council. 

Having weighed up several factors, and following the escalation of Greater Manchester to Tier 3 coronavirus restrictions, sadly it left the company with no alternative but to cancel the 2020 Skate Manchester Ice attraction. 

Rob Derry, managing director of events for Arena Group, said it was with a heavy heart that the company had come to this disappointing decision, but that it was in the best interests of public health. 

“In the current climate and with so many uncertainties ahead, it is in everyone’s interest  that we do what we can to manage the pandemic and cancel this year’s event,” he said.

“We are extremely  saddened by this but look forward to being back, hopefully in Spring next year, with an event to be  remembered.  

“We will of course be offering full refunds to our valued customers and supporters who have already booked.

“We are sorry for the disappointment that this will cause and thank you to all our stakeholders for your understanding.” 

Manchester City Council spokesperson Cllr Pat Karney said it “probably comes as little surprise” that we will not be welcoming the ice rink to Manchester this year.

“Skate Manchester has become a key part of the city’s festive celebrations, but Tier 3 restrictions mean this type of event cannot go ahead,” he said.

“We know this announcement will come as a disappointment to the many people who have  already booked tickets, but we have to put public health advice first and keep Manchester safe.

“We look forward to Skate Manchester returning in 2021.”