Local media in Bahrain, quoting a senior government official, reports that work on a BD20m ($55.8m, £32.4m, €41m) theme park which will include the state's first full-size ice arena and indoor ski slope, will go ahead as planned next month (February).

The development comes after a municipal council recently shelved the project, citing worries that it would damage key sewage and water networks located at the Muharraq Grand Garden site. However, an agreement has now been reached which will see the utilities pipes temporarily diverted during construction work.

The 94,000sq m project, near Bahrain International Airport, will include an indoor sports arena, outdoor sports grounds, an aquatic museum, a kart track, a fitness club and gym and amusement rides, plus a shopping centre, business centre and a multipurpose convention and exhibition centre.

Completion is expected during 2017, having already experienced two years of delays.