Plans have been unveiled to transform the former Ayr Ice Rink site into a multi-sport facility featuring padel courts and a Hyrox training arena. The site, which closed amid rising costs, was sold last August after previous redevelopment attempts fell through. This new proposal aims to boost hybrid racing and local athletic opportunities.
The Ayr Ice Rink, a venue managed for 51 years by its operators, shut down due to significant increases in utility bills. It was placed on the market in September 2023, following a public campaign that gathered over 12,000 signatures in a petition to preserve it. Earlier that August, a group of investors led by Glasgow Ice Centre had submitted an offer in collaboration with organizations such as Scottish Curling, Kyle Figure Skating Club, Ayr Figure Skating Club, and Ayr Bruins Junior Ice Hockey Club.
Subsequent plans by Currie Removals Ltd to convert the site into a storage and distribution center received approval from South Ayrshire Council in June. However, the deal collapsed a month later, prompting the owners, Ayrshire Curlers Ltd, to relist the property. The site was ultimately sold in August of the previous year.
Now, proposals for a multi-sport facility and wellness center have emerged. The development will include four padel courts operated under the Level 7 Padel brand, with a separate entrance for these courts. Additionally, eeVo Training has outlined a purpose-built indoor arena tailored for hybrid racing, featuring full Hyrox simulations, a complete indoor running track, and facilities for year-round training.
A spokesperson for the project stated: "This facility is about raising the standard of Hybrid racing in the UK - and creating more opportunities for athletes across the area."
Further details on the proposals are anticipated in the coming months, marking a shift from ice-based sports to emerging fitness disciplines at the long-vacant location.