WOULD you like to see a new indoor ice-skating rink in the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole area?

That is the question posed by the deputy leader of BCP Council, who wants to know what local people think of the idea – as well as where it could be located.

Councillor Philip Broadhead asked over 1000 people on Twitter and Facebook what they thought of an indoor ice rink.

He asked: “Does the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole area need a new indoor Ice Rink?

“If so, where would you like to see it?”

The posts received much attention, with many followers sending their thoughts and suggestions.

One responder said: “I wonder if some of the redundant retail space (perhaps in one of the shopping centres or former department stores) could be repurposed.”

Another suggested a location next to Poole train station for easy access.

Cllr Broadhead told the Daily Echo: “This is something that’s been talked about for years. I’ve actually been blown away by the response, it seems to be an idea that’s got legs as there is definitely a desire there from local people.

“There are no plans at the moment, but I just wanted to open the discussion up to hear people’s views. I’m always shocked by how packed the two winter rinks in Bournemouth Gardens and the BIC get during Christmas time.

Bournemouth Echo:

He added: “Of course they’re just seasonal leisure offerings, if we were to bring a new permanent indoor rink to the town it would have to be more sustainable, maybe as a sports offering for ice hockey teams and figure skaters – that would be great.

“These are growing sports and my interest has certainly increased having watched the Mighty Ducks TV series with my kids. But I certainly don’t know best and that’s why I wanted to get people’s views on this.”

Bournemouth previously had a popular ice rink that shut down 30 years ago. Westover Road Ice Rink closed in 1991 after the owners said it had become unviable. Despite petitions, protests and a deputation to the council, it closed.

Bournemouth Echo: Lots of tears for the supporters of the Bournemouth Ice rink seen here on the last night before the rink was closed, 1991...

Cllr Broadhead said: “A lot of people just want us to bring back what we once had. We must remember, however, that these ultimately didn’t work. If this were to happen it would require significant investment and would need to be used as regularly as possible.”

In terms of potential location, Cllr Broadhead said: “Kings Park is very central, and Christchurch is accessible from the east and west, with some old industrial estates around as possible locations.

“I’d love to see one and my kids would love to see one too. But you have to start the discussion and hopefully that’s been done.”