A proposed Christmas ice skating rink next to Kensington Palace has been cancelled because of concerns over heightened tensions amid the Israel-Hamas conflict.
The festive fair in Perks Field has been postponed after a review, taking into consideration the site’s neighbours, which include the Israeli embassy.
The Russian ambassador also lives next door to the site of the event, which was due to take place between November and January.
Event organisers Tamarisk said pre-ordered tickets would be refunded and that it would return next year.
Co-founders Robert Derry and Peter Phillips, who is the late Queen’s grandson, said: “In developing the plans for ICE at Kensington Palace, our primary concern has always been the safety and enjoyment of our visitors.
“In light of recent events, and during a period of heightened tension and uncertainty in the area, we have taken the decision to postpone the planned event for this year as the safety and security of the public continues to be our priority.
“We are hugely grateful to the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, our partners, local businesses and the wider community who have worked with us over recent months, and we look forward to returning in 2024 to deliver a magical, festive experience that everyone can enjoy.”
Hundreds of protesters gathered outside the Israeli embassy in Kensington earlier this month in the aftermath of the Hamas attack on Israel.
Kensington Palace is Prince William and Kate’s official London residence and Perks Field is used as a helicopter landing place for the Royals.
However, last year the Prince and Princess of Wales and their three children relocated to Adelaide Cottage at Windsor Castle for the Christmas period.
Buckingham Palace first began renting out the space a decade ago as a way to supplement the Royal households income and it has been used for a design festival and to host Burberry fashion shows in the past.
When the plans were approved earlier this year, councillors heard that conditions were put in place “to ensure the safety and security of members of the Royal family and diplomats living nearby”.
A fence to separate the event and nearby embassies would have been at least three metres high, Kensington and Chelsea’s planning committee heard.
