This in from Isle of Wight Conservative MP, Andrew Turner‘s office. Ed
The Island’s MP, Andrew Turner, is giving his support to a community campaign to save Ryde Arena Ice Rink. After the news that Planet Ice would be closing its doors on March 25th, a wave of public support to keep the rink open emerged.
A recent public rally, attended by Mr Turner, gave an opportunity for the community to come together and show the strength of feeling against the rink being closed. Petitions have circulated online attracting over 9,000 names.
Community ownership being explored
A local steering group has been set up and has been in touch with Mr Turner about the possibility of bringing the rink into community ownership, similar to the Waterside Pool model that exists already. If the rink were run by a Community Interest Company, the assets would be locked in for community use and any profit would be used for the benefit of the community.
Mr Turner said:
“I was pleased to attend the rally of support at the ice rink last week and it was most encouraging to see the huge public support to keep the rink open. There is obviously much concern about the potential closure and the extent of public feeling should be a positive element in the fight to retain it. It is an important asset to Ryde, indeed to the Island, and is valued by many people, youngsters and adults alike.
“The legal position is still being clarified at the moment, as this becomes clearer then I very much hope that a way forward will present itself. For my part I will do all I can to help and support those working to save this important facility. I have also written to the Isle of Wight Council giving my view that any development proposal for the site should include an ice-rink – either in the existing building or in a suitable position elsewhere in Ryde.”
Fighting all the way
Spokesman for the steering group, Ian Jenkins, said:
“We are delighted to have Andrew’s support and he has helped already with information about the possibility of listing the rink as an asset of community value, which we will be considering carefully.
“One thing is certain – we are not going to let the ice rink in Ryde close down without a fight.”
