FAQ
FAQ
How many changing rooms will there be:
This seems to be important to a lot of people. At this time the plans are looking to accomodate 4 changing rooms; two for female, two for male, for home and away. In addition we look to provide referee changing and performer changing. That said, it is likely that the 4 main rooms will be used as needed according to the activities being held - all are set as uni-sex.
Other rinks have issues with perma frost - how will you prevent this:
There appears to be some rinks suffering from this issue. The rink proposed will be on second floor, so we must ensure that we do not have issue with condensation. At this time advice given suggests underfloor heating to the underside of the ice. This may seem strange, but insulation is placed between the heat and cold and a balance then achieved. A final solution will be up to the consultants on the project.
How many seats will the new areana hold:
Due to the size limitations on the site, we anticipate between 750-900 seats in total. There will in addition be seats around the rink, but this will be determined as the plans move forward. In addition there will be viewing from both the cafe area and restaurant/bar area.
How large will the rink be:
Whilst it would be good to have a 60m x 30m rink, this site would not accomodate it. The size will be 56m x 26m, which is large enough for all hockey teams and ice dancers. This size is known as international size and is quite common e.g. Oxford, Cardiff.
Will there be a bar:
The complex is expected to have a licenced bar within the restuarant area - this will be subject to planning and licencing. However, it is anticipated that drinkers during match days and other events may be restricted in their access to area's in the complex for safety and crowd control.
Does the complex have planning:
At this time we are preparing plans to go forward for pre-consultation, this will happen in mid-January 2010. Previous discussions with planners have been positive and we expect the same within pre-consultation. However, we cannot pre-judge decisions in this area.
Part of any planning is consultation, and this is where you all come in - you're views both positive and negative are needed - this will help inform the planners and us on what is good / bad in the design, it will also show if the complex is one that can be sustainable - the more support we have - the more likely it is to be sustainable!
When will the rink be built:
There are a number of steps before we get to start the build. Non the least is planning. Today we are working on pre-application. Assuming that this is positive and in mid-January 2010 these plans will be placed on this site (so keep checking), we will also put on the comments we have had - and would appreciate further feedback from yourselves - don't be shy.
We would then hope that a full application for outline planning will be submitted to Southampton City Council during February 2010. The council is charged with determining planning applications of this size within 13 weeks.
Assuming planning is obtained, finance for the whole complex will be needed - once secured then build can commence.
Who will run the rink:
We are in discussions with a Trust to run the Ice rink operation. This has advantages over a normal company for tax including VAT. Once these discussions are finalised full details will be posted on this site.
Other area's of the rink are available for franchises or private businesses. Any company interested in these area's should contact the company for more information.
How much money is the council subsidising the rink by:
The rink will be privately owned and no money for the operation of the complex have been asked for.
How much will it cost to use the rink / are there any discounts available:
No final figures have been put on the charges at this time as it will depend on the final operator. It is likely to be in line with other rinks around the country. Any discounts would also be up to the operator, there are no discounts provided from any public money.