Ice rink closed following damage in New Year storms

Tuesday 02 January 2024

Jersey's ice-skating rink will remain closed until at least Thursday after strong gale-force winds on New Year's Eve caused "internal damage" to its structure.

The Jersey Development Company said that repairs were already underway at the rink, located at the Weighbridge in a steel-framed marquee – but that the structure would need to be professionally inspected and signed-off as safe and fit for use once the repair work is complete.

The JDC's ice rink has been closed since Sunday, when weather warnings were in force across the Island.

In a statement provided to the JEP, the JDC has now said: "Unfortunately, the ice rink structure suffered internal damage as a result of the storm force winds which affected the Island on New Year's Eve.

"Due to the ongoing strong and gale force winds forecast for today and tomorrow, the ice rink will unfortunately remain closed until Thursday 4th January.

"We apologise for any inconvenience caused, safety of users is paramount. Thank you for your understanding."

People are asked not to visit for booking changes until the rink has reopened.

Curling is also only on offer to one team at a time, following "unrepairable damage" caused to several of the curling stones in the days leading up to Christmas.

The ice rink is due to remain open daily from 4 January until 18 February.

It wasn't the only festive activity to fall victim to the storm – the Jersey Long Distance Swimming Club's annual New Year's Day swim also had to be called off due to the "adverse weather conditions".