Leicester Square ice rink deal sparks row over 'privatised' public space

A new three-year deal to bring an ice rink to Leicester Square every Christmas has reignited a battle over one of London's best-known public spaces.Westminster City Council has agreed an arrangement with entertainment company Underbelly that will see Skate Leicester Square return each festive season until at least 2029.But the deal has been blasted by businesses, who argue the famous square is increasingly closed off to the public because of ticketed events.Among the most vocal critics is Simon Thomas, executive chairman of the Hippodrome Casino, who claims Leicester Square was effectively unavailable for almost 200 days last year once event build-up and dismantling periods were taken into account, The Times reports,"One of London's most famous public spaces spends much of its life inaccessible to the public," he said.Supporters of Skate Leicester Square say the attraction has become a popular festive fixture, drawing visitors into central London alongside seasonal favourites such as Hyde Park Winter Wonderland and Somerset House's ice rink.Critics, however, say the issue goes beyond Christmas. They argue the square's long-term future should be shaped around its role as a public gathering space and cultural destination rather than a near year-round programme of commercial events.Historian and author Lucinda Gosling described the attraction as "tacky and tired", arguing it adds to congestion in one of the capital's busiest entertainment districts.The dispute comes as rival visions emerge for Leicester Square and the wider West End.Soho Estates has unveiled proposals for "LSX", a major redevelopment of the square's north-east corner featuring a four-storey digital screen, restaurants, a rooftop terrace and a new visitor attraction. Backers say the scheme could help revitalise an area long criticised for its tired appearance.Questions over Leicester Square's management are nothing new. Westminster City Council became embroiled in a high-profile dispute over amplified busking in the area last year, a row that ultimately reached the courts. Read MoreDuring proceedings, a judge famously likened repeated performances of songs including Sweet Caroline to "psychological torture".The ice rink row also comes amid a wider push to refresh some of central London's best-known destinations, with plans under way to improve parts of Piccadilly Circus and ongoing efforts to boost footfall and the visitor experience along Oxford Street.Westminster City Council has been approached for comment.