Bid for 2,000-seater ice rink backed by study

An early artist's impression has been unveiled of the ice rink

A 2,000-seater ice rink could open in Dudley by late 2027 under proposals set to go before council chiefs.

Dudley Council said its cabinet will be shown findings of a viability study that concluded a rink on Flood Street was feasible and could attract nearly 250,000 visitors a year.

The study also revealed the rink could be home to a new professional ice hockey team and host other large events, such as boxing matches and concerts.

“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," said council leader Patrick Harley.

He added the venue, which would be open for both public skating sessions and lessons, would be a "fantastic asset for the town".

“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 authority's Conservative leader said.

"The icing on the cake would be the creation of a professional ice hockey team based in Dudley for fans to cheer on."

If approved, it could be the first phase of a wider development on Flood Street, the authority said.

The ice rink will be discussed at the next meeting of the cabinet on Monday.