THE future of the Planet Ice rink in Basingstoke has been secured as a new sponsorship agreement has been announced.

The agreement with the English Ice Hockey Association and the NIHL will see the brand be known as the Planet Ice National Ice Hockey League.

Heath Rhodes, chief operations officer, said: “In the first instance we are really pleased with the welcome news that the Basingstoke Bison management is extending their stay with the team and as a result, we feel it is time to update our user groups and the Basingstoke community of the current situation with regard to the rink.

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“It’s been well known for some time that the current facility has become increasingly tired and with the involvement of the local council, the long lease holders Standard Securities, and the operator Planet Ice it may have seemed to the public that the future of the rink was uncertain. However, Planet Ice are pleased to report that all three parties are now in legal’s with a positive solution.”

As previously reported there have been ongoing difficulties with the West Ham Leisure Park, in particular the ice rink and Aquadrome, and the ongoing residents’ disquiet about the situation.

Residents said it would affect so many people if the ice rink was to close and many would be absolutely devastated.

Heath added: “We appreciate the frustration experienced by ice users and the community at large who have tried to help and support a positive solution for the rink over many years. As Planet Ice, we feel it is now time to focus on the way forward which ultimately relies upon a speedy conclusion by solicitors so that we can unveil to all what the refurbishment plan will be.”

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The news has also been welcomed by the current leader of the Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, Cllr Simon Bound.

He posted on Twitter: “Welcome news from Planet Ice securing the future of the ice rink. Looking forward to seeing the refurbishment plans for this much-loved community facility.”

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