By Aneeka Simonis
CONSTRUCTION is soon set to begin at the long-awaited ice rink in Pakenham.
Australian Ice Sports (AIS) will submit their final plans to Cardinia Shire Council by the end of the week, and anticipate building approvals will be granted within two weeks.
The 60 metre x 26 metre competition rink will be relocated a short distance from its original Bald Hill Road site to Peet Street, and will hold up to 800 spectators.
A planning permit for the rink was granted close to two years ago in December 2014.
There has been hardly any word on the site plans since then.
AIS owner Jonathan Cornford, a Narre Warren electrician by trade, is funding the build, and said the process had been exhausting.
But he hopes it’ll be worth it.
“I’ve always wanted to do this … it’s a passion of mine,” said the long-term player and coach.
“I want to grow the sport for the community and kids.”
He and architects are looking over the final design plans on Wednesday 19 October, and intend to submit them to council by Friday 21 October.
Mr Conford coaches the Victoria Gliders under-13 team every Sunday morning in Oakleigh, and will soon take them to Minnesota for competition.
His son is currently competing in Junior A hockey in Toronto.
Sean Demos, a former competitive state and national hockey player, agreed that the rink would provide a safe and social recreational outlet for youths.
“I’ve met some amazing people through ice hockey, and have been able to help build kids’ confidence and self-esteem when they have been shunned by footy clubs due to their ‘clicky’ nature,” he explained.
Original plans for the rink included seating, corporate areas, change rooms, a shop, cafe and other amenities.
It will be located just up from a KemizO Entertainment Centre, which includes a skate arena, and a hockey and ice sports equipment store.
Victoria currently has just two competition ice rinks: Docklands and Oakleigh.
