COULD there be a new indoor ice rink in Bournemouth? That question has caused a lot of local discussion in recent weeks and now thousands have signed a recently resurged petition.

Following Councillor Philip Broadhead’s question posed on social media about the potential for a new ice rink in the BCP area, an amateur ice skater has resurrected his efforts to push that vision into a reality.

Ondrej Zlamal, also known as Jerry, began campaigning for a new ice rink in 2018 but saw his efforts halted by a breakdown in negotiations with potential investors as well as the impact of Covid-19.

Now, three years later, he has renewed efforts with a petition that has gained more than 3000 signatures.

Jerry said: “Our plan is to build a permanent, environmentally friendly ice rink with the best technology on the market to create a self-sufficient building.

“To do that we are planning to install solar panels on the roof and recycle water from the ice to be used for showers and toilets. With the technology that we’re interested in, the ice rink would produce more energy, electricity and heat than it needs so any extra energy can be sold to local companies or residents.”

Jerry, who set up the Wessex Hawks ice hockey team, added: “It has taken longer than expected but we’re closer now than ever before. Our original discussions with investors broke down as there were too many disagreements. However, now we are speaking to new potential investors who have a great interest in this project.

“With the amount of signatures we have so far, I wouldn’t hesitate to suggest that at least 10 per cent of people in Dorset would love to see this happen.”

The planned ice rink would be 26x56m, the minimum requirement for competition games. Mr Zlamal also hopes to introduce short track speed skating, figure skating, youth ice hockey and adult hockey to the area.

He said: “We are now at the stage of approaching the local council to find land in the area. This has potential to bring more visitors and ice sport enthusiasts to the town, creating more revenue.

“In all, it’s a great opportunity to have a fantastic venue where you can enjoy a day out with your family and friends, even if it's raining outside.”

Bournemouth previously had a popular ice rink that shut down 30 years ago. Westover Road Ice Rink closed in 1991 after the owners said it had become unviable. Despite petitions, protests and a deputation to the council, it closed.

The rink was also home to the Bournemouth Stags, Bucks, Hounds and Terriers ice hockey teams.

To find out more about the project, including the petition, visit: http://chng.it/qLVPT4Pj