An MSP “desperately” wants to see Ayr Ice Rink saved from closure, as she joins the thousands of others yearning to see ice sports continue in the town.
South of Scotland Conservative list MSP, Sharon Dowey, is keen to explore all avenues to stop the rink from shutting at the end of September.
Ayr Ice Rink owners Ayrshire Curlers Ltd announced at the end of last month that a huge spike in energy costs pushed them into making the decision to close the venues doors.
Curling bosses said they were faced with a rates rise of 110 per cent at the start of October - taking the average cost of daily electricity from £419 to £880.
An online petition calling for a prevention to the closure has amassed over 10,000 signatures.
Mrs Dowey’s plea comes as South Scotland Labour List MSP Carol Mochan and South Ayrshire Council respectively met with ice rink owners Ayrshire Curlers Ltd in hopes of finding a solution and offering support.
Sharon Dowey MSP has now written to the Scottish Government, Sportscotland and South Ayrshire Council calling on their support.
Mrs Dowey said: “I am saddened to learn of the decision taken by the management board of Ayr Ice Rink to close the rink at the end of September.
“As I’m sure many local people do, I have fond memories of skating at Ayr Ice Rink when I was younger. I desperately want to see it saved for all the families, figure skaters, curlers and hockey teams who enjoy using it.
“I have written to the SNP Government, Sportscotland and the local council to seek their support.”
“It is encouraging that South Ayrshire Council is currently exploring a number of options, including working with potential investors to construct a new ice rink in Ayr, but I hope the current owners will rethink and keep the rink open until a solution is found.”
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