Canberra ice sports facility moves one step forward

A new twin sheet ice sports facility for Canberra will be built in Tuggeranong following the selection of a proponent to develop a detailed proposal.

With the ACT Government having previously indicated its preference for any future facility to be located in south Canberra, the identified site on Rowland Rees Crescent in the suburb of Greenway will see the new facility located near other sporting facilities and close to the Tuggeranong Town Centre and public transport options.

Last year, the ACT Government undertook an expression of interest (EOI) process to seek a suitably qualified and experienced party to design, construct, own, operate and maintain a new ice sports facility in Canberra.

This process identified Cruachan Investments Pty Ltd (Cruachan) as the suitable proponent. Cruachan’s initial proposal met the requirements set out in the EOI, which specified the delivery of two Olympic-sized ice rinks, associated change rooms and amenities for participants and officials and spectator capacity for 2,000.

The ACT Government will now commence a direct negotiation process with Cruachan that will result in a detailed proposal being submitted for consideration.

It is anticipated Cruachan’s detailed proposal will be submitted to the ACT Government in early 2021.

A review of the preferred site in Greenway will also be undertaken to ensure it is suitable for the proposed development.

Commenting on the project, ACT Minister for Sport and Recreation, Yvette Berry stated “this is an exciting step for Canberra, particularly for the sports but also for the wider community as this will provide a new recreational facility for everyone to enjoy.

“In 2016, the ACT Government made a commitment to look at options for a new ice sports facility. This announcement goes beyond that commitment and brings Canberra a big step closer to the construction of a new facility.

Stephen Campbell, Director of Cruachan Investments Pty Ltd, added “we are pleased to be selected as the preferred proponent to design, construct, and operate the ACT ice sports facility (and) look forward to working with the ACT Government and the ACT Ice Sports Federation to create a World Class Arena that will attract national and international events and provide a new home to improve access and growth in ice sports.”