Plans to repurpose the former ice skating rink on Ryde seafront, Ryde Arena, into a distillery and visitor attraction have come to light.
News OnTheWight understands that Isle of Wight Distillery, best known for their Mermaid Gin series of products, have been engaged in discussions with the owners of the building for several years.
They have now lodged their plans to morph the former ice rink into a venue akin to the Bombay Sapphire visitor centre in Hampshire, with the council’s planning department.
Building still in AEW hands
At this stage the Distillery are applying for change of use. They have not yet purchased the building.
Without planning approval they cannot proceed with any further decisions regarding relocation.
Expanding the business and boosting jobs
The envisaged transformation will enable a well-known, sustainably managed local business to broaden its operations and enhance job creation.
The applicants maintain that the initiative will infuse new vitality into the long-term vacant premises, creating a landmark destination at the gateway to the Island — which currently benefits from infrastructure enhancements as part of the Ryde Interchange project.
Co-Founders Xavier and Conrad said,
“This is a hugely exciting time for our home-grown island business. We have received great support from our community over the years; we hope to provide positive opportunities for people and boost the local economy with this exciting new venture.”
The “best alternative use of this well-known building”
They underscore that, considering the growing reputation of the Isle of Wight Distillery Ltd and the ideal location of the site to house a visitor attraction of the proposed nature, “this on the face of it, appears to be the best alternative use of this well-known building”.
View the plans
You can explore the plans on the council’s planning portal (23/01728/FUL) and voice your opinion.
The public consultation runs until 10th November 2023.
Article edit
4pm 6th Oct 2023 – Comment from IWD added
