After news broke yesterday afternoon that up to 40 jobs will be lost when Planet Ice closes on 25th March, Isle of Wight social media became frantic with campaigning.
A Facebook Group and online petition were quickly formed by sports therapist, Victoria Coles, which have attracted well over 5,000 members and signatures, urging something to be done to save one of the few leisure venues that caters for all ages on the Isle of Wight.
The venue, owned by the Isle of Wight council and leased out, has been home to figure skaters, various ice hockey teams and more.
Losing money
The current lease-holder of Ryde Arena told staff the venue had been losing money over the last seven years and could not continue.
He’s reportedly offered to sell on the remainder of the lease, along with fixtures and fittings for just £5.
Keep it open
A whole host of suggestions have been posted to the Facebook Group and there certainly seems a lot of support for the rink to stay open.
As well as suggestions, Islanders have been leaving their memories of the ice rink and how, in many cases, it helped shape them.
For more info and to stay updated see the Save our Isle of Wight Ice Rink Facebook group.
Sign the Petition: Change.org Save Our Rink
Image: © Nicky Craft
