Basingstoke’s ice rink, a vital hub for the local skating and hockey communities, has been closed since November 3 to undergo long-anticipated refurbishment.
However, ice rink users are growing increasingly frustrated as it has emerged that the lease assignment central to the repairs has not yet been completed.
The closure, which aims to address significant structural issues caused by permafrost damage, was meant to mark the start of a comprehensive refurbishment.
But the lack of a finalised lease between Standard Securities Ltd (SSL), the rink’s leaseholder, and Planet Ice (PI), the operator, has left the timeline for repairs and reopening uncertain.
READ MORE: Basingstoke ice rink to close on Sunday for refurbishment
Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council (BDBC) has confirmed that the lease assignment—a critical step for Planet Ice to assume responsibility for the repairs—has yet to be finalised.
“We do not own or operate the ice rink, and the repair timetable will be set by Planet Ice. We expect a formal announcement when the lease assignment is completed,” said a council spokesperson.
The delay has raised questions about the progress of the refurbishment and the commitment of the involved parties.
Stewart Tempest, chair of the Basingstoke Junior Ice Hockey Club, expressed concern over the lack of transparency.
“Without the lease being finalised, Planet Ice has no obligation to move forward with repairs on a set timeline. This uncertainty leaves the rink’s future hanging in the balance,” Mr Tempest said.
He speculated that Planet Ice might be hesitant to finalise the lease until they fully assess the extent of permafrost damage beneath the rink.
“By not signing, they can evaluate the scope of the issue and decide whether the repairs are financially viable,” Mr Tempest added.
The delay in finalizing the lease has left rink users—including junior hockey teams, synchro skaters, and recreational players—without a clear timeline for returning to the ice.
The lack of updates has exacerbated frustrations, with many feeling left in the dark.
Planet Ice and the council have stated that a joint press release is being prepared but have not given a definitive timeline for its publication.
SEE ALSO: Council 'followed procedures' to prevent disrepair at ice rink, report finds
“At this moment, I can’t say when it will be sent out, as it relies on both parties,” said Heath Rhodes, Planet Ice's chief operating officer.
Ice rink users fear that disagreements over lease terms may be contributing to the delay. Sources indicate that the council sought a 15-year guarantee for the rink to remain an ice facility, while Planet Ice reportedly pushed for a shorter commitment.
The delay has fuelled speculation that Planet Ice might be positioning itself to walk away if the repairs prove too costly or the rink becomes financially unviable.
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