Hull City Council is supporting amateur ice sports clubs that have been negatively impacted by the essential refurbishment at Hull Ice Arena, and who have had to find alternative facilities for training as a result of the refurbishment.
Financial support is being offered to ice sports clubs who have remained in training during the refurbishment, contributing to the differential in facility hire costs and travel expenses. The support is outlined in a decision record published by the Council today.
The £1.2m refurbishment will see the replacement of the ice pad and air handling units at the arena.
Councillor Hester Bridges, portfolio holder for leisure and deputy leader at Hull City Council, said: “We recognise that this essential maintenance work at the Ice Arena has negatively impacted some local clubs. We have been working closely with representatives of the clubs affected throughout the refurbishment to support them, and minimise the impact on their sport. Grass roots sports clubs are an essential part of the sports and leisure system and incredibly important to the health and wellbeing of our community.
“Sport and leisure participation are important to both our physical and mental health. Clubs like these provide a valuable service to our communities, especially following the coronavirus pandemic, and we will always try and support them as best we can.”
In June 2021 the Council entered into works contracts for the replacement ice pad, air handling units, boiler and general refurbishment works. The target end date for public opening is the end of October when the first home games for the ice hockey season are scheduled.
The Ice Arena is used by 10 well-established community or amateur clubs for training, matches and competitions. In addition to the grants, Hull City Council has also approved £1,100 to contribute towards an additional package of support.
In addition to contributing to travel and facility hire expenses, Hull City Council, working in partnership with Hull Culture and Leisure, is supporting ice sports clubs participating in the 21/22 ice hockey season with free rink hire for training at Hull Arena during October, use of a local sports hall and free summer swimming passes for junior ice hockey players.
