2,000 seater ice rink 'would bring £40 million into Dudley,' says new report

A viability study said the £9 million development would bring 250,000 visitors a year into the town, once it had become established.

Ice Rink operator Planet Ice has expressed an interest in opening an ice rink in the town, and a new feasibility study has concluded that it would be viable.

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The economic impact assessment, carried out by West Midlands Growth Company, concluded that the development, planned for Flood Street, opposite the Duncan Edwards Leisure Centre, could also be the first phase of a wider town centre development to include new shops, drive-thru restaurants and coffee shops.

The cost of the scheme would be met by the developer.

It said the venue could be home to a new professional ice hockey team as well as hosting other large events such as boxing shows or concerts.

The rink would be open for public skating sessions as well as for lessons.

Councillor Patrick Harley, leader of the council, said: “I am delighted that the results of the economic impact assessment confirm that an ice rink would be viable in Dudley.

“It would be a fantastic asset for the town and with a Metro stop right outside, it will bring hundreds of thousands of people in every year to our borough.

“It will also create jobs for our residents, as well as giving us a state-of-the-art arena to host other events like boxing matches or concerts. The icing on the cake would be the creation of a professional ice hockey team based in Dudley for fans to cheer on.

“It is a no-brainer for me and a project I have been driving for several years, so I am delighted to see it is coming closer to fruition.”