Plymouth ice rink to permanently close
The CEO says it's due to "the energy crisis, rising costs and economic headwinds"
Last updated 12th Oct 2022
Plymouth's ice rink is set to close in the New Year.
The Pavilions have confirmed the news, as they set out their plans to focus on the music and events arena side of the business.
CEO, Sarah Phillips, says the venue has been "significantly impacted by the energy crisis", which influenced their decision to shut down the rink.
"Plymouth Pavilions is a high energy user and the increase in energy costs has turned the operation of the ice rink from a non-commercial business into one which is wholly unsustainable, and which had the potential to threaten the viability of the entire venue if we did not take action.
"The decision to close the ice rink is a very difficult one but our focus has to be to ensure the future of the Pavilions as the region’s largest indoor arena and a hugely important and much-loved community asset for the city.
"We are sorry for all those who use the ice rink and for our colleagues working there whose jobs are at risk as a consequence of this decision; and we are committed to supporting them over the coming weeks."
On Saturday 1 October, 2022, households and businesses across the country saw increases to their energy bills. For the Pavilions, they say the impact of this was an near tripling of electricity costs overnight.
The energy price rises took effect on the same day the service contract between Plymouth City Council and Five Directions Limited for the provision of Sports/Leisure Ice and Arena facilities in Plymouth expired at the end of its 10-year term. This has not been extended or replaced.
The music/events arena employs 29 permanent and 86 casual staff as well as generating additional employment through local supply chains which support the venue.
The Pavilions say they are in the process of consulting with the three permanent staff who will be affected by the closure of the ice rink, as well as coaches and other casual staff who form part of the ice rink team.