THE organisers of a Christmas event in Caerphilly town centre have applied for planning permission to allow the festivities to continue for another ten years.
Planning documents submitted to Caerphilly County Borough Council show applicant Edward Danter, of Danter’s Fun Fair, is looking to secure the future of the Caerphilly On Ice event.
Because the event is held for more than 28 days, a temporary planning application is needed. Instead of applying for the same permission each year, a single application taking in the next ten years has been submitted to cover potential future events.
The council has already signed an agreement for Danter’s to return this year.
Cllr Jamie Pritchard, local ward member and deputy leader of Caerphilly County Borough Council said he had met with the operator and council officials last year prior to the agreement being signed.
He said he was looking forward to the event returning again in this year, subject to planning approval.
He added: “Last year saw many thousands of people coming to Caerphilly On Ice. It was a real example of what Caerphilly could positively offer, so with an active plan in place for this year, residents have already been in touch to say they will be looking forward to heading to the rink and rides again.
“It is important that we try to bring these kind of attractions to Caerphilly.”
The application states the event will include a temporary covered ice rink, skate hire, and “associated Christmas-themed activities” such as a cafe and bar, rides and attractions, and food concessions.
Mr Danter has applied for planning permission for the event up to and including the year 2034, to be held at the town’s Owain Glyndwr Playing Field.
The event will employ an estimated 65 people, planning documents show.
A supporting statement by planning agents at Thomas Dean Architects as “a massive success and was fully supported by local people and council members”.
“The applicant is nationally recognised and has a history in fairgrounds and events that is respected worldwide,” the agents said, adding that this winter’s edition is scheduled to run from mid-November until early January.
The application is currently out for consultation, and can be viewed on the Caerphilly County Borough Council website under reference 24/0501/COU.
