The city has unveiled a new all-seasons public square in downtown Montreal that will have spots to hang out, an ice skating rink in the winter, and even an "urban chalet" with restaurants and "creative spaces," according to Mayor Valérie Plante.

In a statement, the mayor said the new Esplanade Tranquille will be the "new flagship destination" of the Quartier des Spectacles.

"This project allows us to transform a heat island into a place of relaxation and entertainment for the entire population, which will allow Montreal and its downtown area to shine throughout the year, thanks to mobile facilities that meet the needs of Montreal families," the mayor said.

Located west of rue Clark between rues Sainte-Catherine and de Montigny, the 5,000-square-metre public square will be "transformed according to the seasons."

It will feature a green space and hangout spots during the summer. In the winter, the Esplanade Tranquille will turn into a winter wonderland complete with a huge refrigerated skating rink.

"This new multi-purpose space is a perfect complement to our existing infrastructures and will make it possible to meet the multiple uses of festivals and events and to offer Montrealers a new place to gather," Monique Simard, Chair of the Board of Directors of the Partenariat du Quartier des spectacles, added.