An open air ice skating pond could be built alongside the River Great Ouse as part of a radical scheme to revamp a key site.

The vision was unveiled at the launch of a public consultation over ways to transform the area around Denver sluice, north of Littleport, into a visitor destination and tourist attraction.

Among other proposals put forward were improved walking, cycling and riding trails, water sport facilities, and a water taxi service between Downham Market and Denver.

Although there were few details given as to exactly what the ice skating pond proposal would entail, it was the most eye-catching of the schemes outlined.

The Denver complex currently coordinates what is thought to be one of the largest and most sophisticated sluices in the country. But under the new plans, it is also hoped it will become a key attraction.

Ian Bliss, waterways partnerships manager for the Environment Agency, said: “We already have limited facilities here at Denver Complex, but it has so much potential.

“The complex is a vital operational site, so we’ve explored how to balance the important work that it does as well as attract visitors to the facilities. It’s also important to emphasise that this can raise awareness of the importance of Denver Sluice and promote it as an education facility.”

The Environment Agency manages the site and is a partner in the Ouse Washes Partnership, a three-year project largely funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund.