People power has prevailed as North Lanarkshire Council confirmed that plans to replace the popular ice rink at The Time Capsule in Coatbridge have been shelved. The decision follows extensive public engagement and reflection on strong community feedback.
Background of the Proposal
Earlier this year, Lanarkshire Live reported that a meeting of the local authority's communities committee was scheduled to deliberate plans that could have seen the rink replaced by a play and fitness area. Shortly afterwards, the council stated that a decision on the ice rink's future would not be made at the April meeting, despite officers putting forward proposals for changes to the facility.
A report presented to councillors outlined options to transform the ice rink into an active dedicated play area, alongside the introduction of padel courts and personal fitness areas. The paper suggested the move could increase visitor numbers and generate higher revenue, helping to secure the long-term viability of the site.
Public Outcry and Petition
Following public outcry that included an online petition gathering nearly 15,000 signatures, council leader Jim Logue confirmed the proposals would not proceed. He stated: "At the communities committee on April 27, the Labour administration instructed that a community-based consultation would be undertaken to collate the views of all interested parties. This has now taken place and concluded that 78 per cent of respondents indicated that they wished the ice rink to be retained. As such, I can advise that at the council meeting on June 25, the administration will respect these views and not proceed with the recommendations to close the rink."
Challenges Ahead
Mr Logue highlighted challenges, noting that public usage at The Time Capsule has decreased by 16 per cent over two years. He added: "Disappointingly, the consultation also highlighted that 57 per cent of those interviewed stated that they currently do not and would not use the ice rink. Faced with the current financial reality facing North Lanarkshire Council and the current operational deficit accrued from providing the Ice Rink facility, I believe the time is now right for the council to meet with all parties interested in future ice skating and ice hockey provision. To this end, I will meet club representatives and senior council officers to initiate discussions which will, hopefully, lead to constructive and sustainable options going forward."
Political Reactions
Before Mr Logue's announcement, North Lanarkshire SNP councillors said they would submit an amendment at next week’s full council meeting to reject the proposed closure and protect the facility. Councillor Adam Smith, North Lanarkshire SNP communities spokesperson, said: "The public have spoken, the clubs have spoken, and the message could not be clearer - North Lanarkshire wants the Time Capsule ice rink saved. Despite very limited advertisement, and despite residents being asked to respond to an extremely long consultation document, more than a thousand people still took the time to make their views known. That shows the strength of feeling in the community. The council’s own engagement shows overwhelming support for keeping the ice rink. It also shows the devastating impact closure would have on local clubs, young people and families who rely on this facility."
Councillor Fergus MacGregor, SNP councillor for Coatbridge South, added: "The Time Capsule is not just another council facility. It is part of Coatbridge, it is part of North Lanarkshire, and generations of families have used and valued it. As a local councillor for the ward, I know how strongly people feel about this. The council’s own engagement confirms what local residents and clubs have been saying from the start - people do not want the ice rink closed."
