The future of the former Ryde Arena ice rink may soon be decided, with new interest emerging and efforts reportedly underway to secure a deal ‘before Christmas’.
It is understood that the building’s owner is currently seeking best offers from interested parties, with the aim of progressing a disposal of the site – perhaps within just a matter of days.
After years of stagnation, this marks a potential turning point in the long-running uncertainty surrounding the prominent seafront site.
A recent condition report is said to estimate the cost of bringing the building back into usable condition at around £2million. Any serious redevelopment would likely require significant investment, particularly if the building is to be repurposed for public or community use.
While there is no confirmation yet of who the interested parties are, suggestions have been made in the past about the site’s potential as a sports or community arena, or as an indoor shopping centre. At one point, rumours suggested Lidl were interested in the site.
In 2023, Isle of Wight Distillery revealed well-formed plans to transform the former ice rink in Ryde into a destination distillery complete with a bar and restaurant. But that came to nothing.
News of a possible sale will be of keen interest to campaigners who have long fought to see the site returned to public or recreational use, as well as to those pushing for investment along Ryde’s seafront.
Perfect location for a Lidl, much safer than putting a
Lidl near the UNSAFE McDonald’s nr Cothey Way.
Too be honest a Premier Inn or Holiday Inn would be a
better choice, especially being it is along the esplanade.