ABERDEEN’S only ice rink has opened its doors to the public for the first time in over a year, as part of a series of free taster sessions.
The Linx Ice Arena closed in March last year as part of Aberdeen City Council’s £27million budget cuts – forcing skaters to travel to Elgin and Dundee.
During the 18-month closure the rink underwent a £1.45million refurbishment, which members of the public and skating groups are now being asked to test ahead of next month’s European Curling Championships.
Among those on the ice yesterday was ice dance coach and Scottish champion Gillian Smith, who was sharing her expertise with youngsters.
The 26-year-old, of Mosside Drive, Portlethen, has been travelling to Dundee five times a week to practise her skating, and said she was delighted the Aberdeen rink is reopening.
She added: “It’s great. Aberdeen Figure Skating Club had a lot of interest over the weekend, with more than 200 people signing up to become members.”
As part of the renovations a new refrigeration system and flooring was installed, along with a new floor of ice. The barriers around the rink have also been replaced and the walls repainted.
Aberdeen’s Synchronised Skating Club and Ice Hockey club will take to the ice later this week, and another set of public sessions will be held on Friday, from 5.30pm-7.30pm and Sunday, from noon-2pm and 3pm-5pm.
Free tickets are available from the Beach Leisure Centre on a first come, first served basis.
Kevin Stewart, deputy leader of the city council, said: “I am chuffed to bits that the Linx Ice Arena is reopening and that skaters can get on the ice in an improved venue, which will be appreciated by the award-winning skaters who have continued to do well even during the closure period.”
The European Curling Championships will be held at the Linx Arena from December 5 to 12. The rink reopens on December 19.