Hull’s ice arena has reopened to the public after a £1.55million investment.
Following its closure in March 2020, the newly refurbished arena includes a new ice pad on the ice rink, with new multi-light and enhanced sound systems for an improved visitor experience.
Air conditioning and air circulation has been enhanced to ensure the building is Covid-19 compliant, toilets and team changing facilities have been renovated, and all areas refreshed with new external signage.
Councillor Daren Hale, portfolio holder for economic investment and regeneration, and leader of Hull City Council, said: “It’s fantastic to see Hull Arena reopen to the public following this key leisure investment.
“The improvements have given the arena another lease of life. Some of the most costly new parts installed including the ice pad, could eventually be transferred to a new arena, meaning a saving for us in the future.
“Hull Arena is the region’s only Olympic-sized rink and is used by many local clubs and groups. It’s of tremendous value to people in the wider region, as well as Hull, so I’m delighted we have been able to reopen for them.”
Councillor Hester Bridges, portfolio holder for leisure, and deputy leader of Hull City Council, said: “We are so pleased to welcome everyone back to the arena, which is looking great.
“Ice sports are a really great way to be active, have fun and stay healthy, and the arena offers a great place to meet up with family and friends to skate or watch ice hockey matches. We have some fantastic local teams – the Jets, Kingston Diamonds, Sharks, Cobras, K.C. Knights, as well as the Rec teams and Junior Figure Club – who will be delighted to be back in the Arena, and would love local support.”
Councillor Lynn Petrini, Lord Mayor of Hull, at the official reopening.
Councillor Marjorie Brabazon, Chair for Hull Culture and Leisure Ltd, said: “We are delighted to be reopening so we can offer a whole range of ice activities, including the Big Skate and skate taster sessions.
“The Big Skate campaign has been designed to encourage people to give ice skating a go, as well as inspire those that already enjoy ice sports to come along and reignite their excitement for the sport.
“Learn to skate lessons are available, and we have plenty of established ice hockey and skating clubs for those interested in skills progression.”
The arena attracts 147,000 visitors per year and Hull Culture and Leisure Ltd has a number of opening offers available to attract users back to the centre.
Hull Big Skate is giving away 100 free admissions a week for six weeks. Visit www.hcandl.co.uk/hullbigskate to apply for a free ticket, valid for a week.
Free confidence-building sessions are also available for new and nervous skaters for the first four weeks on a Saturday, with trained coaches. These sessions are available for anyone aged four and above who can stand unaided on the ice. More information can be found here.
For more information about opening times, sessions and pricing, visit the website.
