The funding will allow ongoing operation of the ice rink during Oxpens construction and end-state phases.

To appoint Glanville’s consultants to deliver urgently needed advice for Members to take a key decision on the ice rink’s operational requirements in March 2022, including car parking, emergency vehicle and service access. 

Additionally, as Glanville’s advice is urgently required, to vire £40k from the budget set aside from Development Board in September 2021 for architect fees and legal costs. 

Advice is required urgently to enable Members to take a key decision on operational requirements for the ice rink.  This is the preferred option because it will allow the Council to continue to operate the ice rink as an inclusive, accessible service whilst the Oxpens development is under construction and afterwards.  Construction activity on Oxpens could happen as early as 2023.

Option 1: do nothing.  This option would mean that it would be unlikely that the ice rink could continue to operate and provide an inclusive, accessible service for rink users and meet fire and safety regulations.  There may also be consequences for the delivery of the Oxpens masterplan.  

Option 2: investigate if there is a service budget that might be used.  Both Leisure Services and Property Services have advised there is no budget available for this work so additional budget must be found.

Option 3: secure additional budget to commission technical advice.

Decision taken by the Executive Director (Development) in consultation with the Head of Regeneration & Economy and the Head of Financial Services.