By Ashley Young-
East London residents in Leyton and Walthamstow are looking forward to an ice centre with two Olympic-sized rinks due open to the public in east London this Saturday.
The centre is expected to attract half a million visitors annually, double that of the previous centre, Lee Valley Regional Park Authority said.
The centre costs £30 million and includes a gym, dance studios and a café.
The authority believes it will be the most sustainable ice venue in the UK and said £1.5m was spent on green improvements.
Community programmes worth £1.25m, including a crime prevention scheme, will also run at the centre.
British Ice Skating, the sport’s national governing body, will be launching its Skate UK course there, where qualified coaches teach basic and advanced skills.
The centre will be open seven days a week from 6am until 10pm and will be operated by Greater London Leisure.
The facility is also poised to offer various advantages, enhancing both the physical and social aspects of the community. Additionally, such an initiative would significantly contribute to the area’s reputation, further solidifying Lee Valley as a destination known for its impactful offerings.
The full opening comes after Robin Cousins, 1980 British Olympic gold medallist, premiered the centre to a group including east London schoolchildren on Wednesday (June 14).The former figure skating champion said he was proud to open the new facility, having performed at the opening gala of the old centre in 1984.
“It’s fantastic to see that journey continue,” the former Dancing on Ice star.
“Having these two Olympic size rinks in London is a game changer and I’m sure they will attract thousands of people of all ages and abilities.”
The centre costs £30 million and includes a gym, dance studios and a café.
The authority claims it will be the most sustainable ice venue in the UK and said £1.5m was spent on green improvements.
Lee Valley Regional Park Authority and Waltham Forest Council funded the project.
It will become one of three UK facilities to have two Olympic-sized rinks and replaces the 37-year-old centre on the same site and attract half a million visitors yearly, double that of the previous centre, according to Lee Valley Regional Park Authority.
The full opening comes after Robin Cousins, 1980 British Olympic gold medallist, premiered the centre to a group including east London schoolchildren on Wednesday (June 14).
The former figure skating champion said he was proud to open the new facility, having performed at the opening gala of the old centre in 1984.
“It’s fantastic to see that journey continue,” said the former Dancing on Ice star.
“Having these two Olympic size rinks in London is a game changer and I’m sure they will attract thousands of people of all ages and abilities.”
Lee Valley Regional Park Authority and Waltham Forest Council funded the project.
Grace Williams, leader of Waltham Forest Council, said: “It is going to be absolutely fantastic having such a world class venue in our borough as well as having these incredible facilities on our doorstep.”
Grace Williams, leader of Waltham Forest Council, said: “It is going to be absolutely fantastic having such a world class venue in our borough as well as having these incredible facilities on our doorstep.”
The facility is expected to offer various advantages, enhancing both the physical and social aspects of the community. Additionally, such an initiative would significantly contribute to the area’s reputation, further solidifying Lee Valley as a destination known for its impactful offerings.
The introduction of an ice centre in Lee Valley would provide an array of advantages, notably by expanding sports and recreational opportunities.
Ice skating, ice hockey, figure skating, and curling would become accessible to individuals of all ages and skill levels. Residents and visitors alike would benefit from engaging in physical activities that promote cardiovascular fitness, coordination, balance, and endurance.
”The ice centre would serve as a hub for sports enthusiasts, fostering a sense of community, and encouraging healthy lifestyles.
Accompanying businesses, such as restaurants, cafes, and retail shops are also expected to experience growth as a result, with the hosting of regional and national competitions and events attracting participants and spectators, boosting the local economy even further. The ice centre would thus provide job opportunities, stimulate business growth, and contribute to the overall prosperity of the area.
A spokesperson for Lee Valley Authority told The Eye Of Media.Com: ”An ice centre would act as a catalyst for youth development, offering a range of programs and initiatives. It would provide a safe and structured environment for young people to develop skills, discipline, teamwork, and leadership qualities through various ice sports.
”The centre could also collaborate with local schools, offering educational programs that integrate ice sports into the curriculum, promoting physical fitness, and instilling valuable life skills in the younger generation. Such opportunities would contribute to the personal growth and development of the youth, fostering a sense of achievement and self-confidence.
Locals are thrilled with the news, and believe the ice centre can serve as a focal point for social interaction and community bonding.
Leyton resident, Sacha White, said: ”it’s a brilliant idea and would bring people together, irrespective of age, background, or ability. It will also create a vibrant and inclusive community hub where families, friends, and individuals can gather to participate in activities, cheer for local teams, and create lasting memories.
”The centre can also potentially organize special events, workshops, and social gatherings, fostering a strong sense of community pride and belonging. This social cohesion would contribute to a safer, more connected, and happier community in Lee Valley”.