BOURNEMOUTH’S much loved former ice rink site is being converted into a modern gym after standing empty for 20 years.

Business leaders have welcomed the Westover Road development although it goes in the face of the council’s long-term plans.

A national chain called the Gym Group bought the premises and will install 170 pieces of equipment ahead of a planned April opening.

The ice rink was opened by the Westover Group in 1930 and generations learned to skate there before it closed in 1991.

The empty building has been a source of frustration to traders looking to regenerate a road once known as “the Bond Street of Bournemouth”.

Nigel Hedges, president of Bournemouth Chamber of Trade, said: “This is absolutely great news.

“As Prince Charles said, nobody likes to see a monstrous carbuncle on a friend’s face, and that’s exactly what we have got at the moment.”

Bournemouth council’s long-term idea was to redevelop the ice rink when the neighbouring cinemas move into the forthcoming Pavilion development.

Cllr John Beesley, deputy leader of the council, said: “If the private sector has decided to do something with the premises, then certainly for the time being, that’s very welcome.

“In the longer term, complete redevelopment can only take place in a financial climate that’s going to bring forward the level of investment needed.”

The new gymnasium will initially have a £10.99 a month fee and looks set to become a competitor with the new Pure Gym at The Triangle.

The owners of both emphasise affordability and flexibility and concentrate on training equipment rather than saunas or swimming pools.

The nightclub operator Luminar Leisure previously owned the ice rink site and tried to turn it into a casino but was refused planning permission in 2008.

Town centre councillor David Smith said: “The public have kept asking why don’t we open it so I welcome this new development – it’s good to see the building brought back into use.”

Residents and councillors such as Ron Whittaker have been campaigning for a new ice rink.

Bournemouth council has planning permission for a 5,000-seater ice stadium in King’s Park and it is currently seeking interest from developers.