A SCOTTISH ice rink is set to reopen thanks to a community effort after it was scheduled to close due to "spiralling energy costs".
Elgin Ice Rink was set to close after it had seen its energy costs double, it was announced in July, with staff facing redundancy.
The board of Moray Leisure Centre made the announcement to close the rink after it concluded it was "no longer financially viable".
However, following community and parliamentary backlash to the announcement, Moray Leisure Centre has announced the rink will reopen from October 5. Staff affected by the temporary closure have already been informed that they are no longer at risk of redundancy.
Led by the Ice Rink Joint User Group, who worked in partnership with Moray Leisure Centre management, staff and the board, a new operating model has been created.
Operational improvements will be introduced to generate more income:
- A new 3-tier Skate Pass (bronze, silver, gold) giving flexible options for casual skaters, regular users, and families.
- Updated pricing structure designed to keep the rink viable.
- Improved ice timetable providing a schedule for public skating, lessons, hockey, and curling.
“The last few months have been tough for everyone who relies on the rink, but this outcome shows what is possible when a community comes together," a spokesperson for the Ice Rink Joint User Group said.
"Thanks to this collaboration, we’ve not just reopened the rink - we hope to have safeguarded a place for future generations to discover and enjoy ice sports. We can’t wait to see the rink busy again with people of all ages enjoying skating, curling, and hockey right here in Elgin.”
A spokesperson for the Moray Leisure Centre board said: “Reopening the rink is about more than just ice sports — it’s about protecting a community space and a unique part of Moray’s identity.
"We are proud to have worked closely with the user groups to create a model that keeps the rink viable. We are taking the first steps towards trying to secure the future of the rink, and this depends on increased revenue from the public using the facility.
“Now we need everyone to play their part. Whether you are a first-time skater, a regular curler, or someone who just wants to try something new, we encourage you to come and use the rink.
"Every visit helps secure its future and keeps ice sports thriving in Moray.”
