A businessman has said he is still hopeful of setting up an ice rink at a historical site despite his plans being knocked back by council officials.

Mike Holland said he is still looking to install the temporary ice rink at the Engineerium in The Droveway, Hove, despite applications for the rink being rejected this week.

The businessman said he will amend part of the application to tackle issues raised in the rejection but was concerned that the rejection might delay the project from going ahead this year.

Brighton and Hove City council received a planning application for a temporary ice rink within the grounds of the Grade II listed Engineerium from October to February for a five year period beginning this October.

The application also included permission for a skate hire store, shop and plant machinery.

However, the plans were rejected because council officials deemed the structures would “fail to preserve or enhance the character” of the Engineerium Conservation Area.

It was also considered that the development could cause traffic problems with overspill parking into local roads.

Mr Holland said the site was well-served by bus routes and a railway station.

He added: “I am still hopeful we can get it there, I still don’t see why we can’t.

“We wanted it to be covered in case it was raining but apparently English Heritage don’t like the idea of it being covered so we will have to abide by their wishes.

“With this faffing around, I doubt we will be able to get it for this season which would be a great shame for the people of Mike Holland Hove.”