Ice Skate Birmingham’s 40-metre Big Wheel is back in Centenary Square – after arriving in pieces on the back of lorries.
But if you’ve ever wondered how it rises into the sky so that thousands of visitors to Westside can enjoy a bird’s-eye view of Westside and the city far in the run up to Christmas and beyond, then watch our exclusive video here:
First, the giant legs are laid flat out, then they are scrubbed and jet washed to make sure they will look sparkling clean during the winter. Next, they are hoisted into the air by a giant crane. As the legs begin to lock into position, their giant joints resemble the knees of a grasshopper learning to stand for the first time.
Two of Ice Skate Birmingham’s expert climbers then run up the special steps to insert giant pins to make sure the structure will remain rock solid before the ‘spokes’ neatly stacked on another lorry are then added.
Work began to build this year’s winter attractions two weeks ago. Ice Skate Birmingham will open earlier than ever this year on Friday 1 November and run until Sunday 5 January.
The site’s bespoke ice rink was built first and the ice is now starting to form inside. Other attractions will include an integrated first floor, fully licensed bar serving fizzy drinks, beers, wines, cocktails, coffees and hot chocolates.
Once work on the Big Wheel has been completed, Ice Skate Birmingham will begin to construct the 55-metre City Flyer and also the Air ride which spins and swivels next to Symphony Hall’s new foyer.
Everything is being built by city family firm Danter Attractions, which moved on to the site on Tuesday 8 October only to be hit by two days of heavy rain.
The wheel’s legs were lifted up on Monday 21 October, the day after the edges of Storm Ashley deluged Broad Street on its way to blitzing western Scotland.
Abie Danter who runs the city-based family business with his wife Emily and sons said: “Everyone loves to build these attractions here every year and the guys who climb up to insert the pins are the best in the business, let me tell you.
“Centenary Square is the best location for this type of thing in the country and we are really looking forward to welcoming everyone along for a great time throughout November and December and right into early January.
“The Ice Rink is fully enclosed and bookable, so that is open whatever the weather. Ice Skate Birmingham is always a lovely, family-friendly event right next to some of the city’s main bus and tram stops – once again we are taking the utmost care to make sure everything is perfect so that the whole family can come to relax and have a great time.”
Book your place
Ice Skate Birmingham will be open in Centenary Square, Broad Street B1 2ND from Friday 1 November through to Sunday, 5 January 2025 (closed Christmas Day). The regular opening times of 10am til 10pm will enable visitors to enjoy different experiences during daytime, twilight and evening.
Each ticket is for a 45-minute session on the ice and includes boot hire. Book now for early bird discounts via www.iceskatebirmingham.co.uk and you can also follow the site on Facebook and Instagram, too.
School bookings must be in term time and are available from10am-1pm Monday to Friday. The cost is £8 per child which includes ice skating with a skating aid if required and a cold drink.
Video and pictures for Westside BID by Graham Young.
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