SOCIAL ENTERPRISE BARNSLEY
PRESS RELEASES
PLANS FOR FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE IN BARNSLEY
8th September 2006
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The mobile ice rink in action at St. Helen’s Primary School, Monk Bretton, in February this year.
Two local companies, Oak Initiatives Ltd and Get Ya Skates On Ltd, both based at the Kendray Business Centre, have joined forces to bring the fun of ice skating to a permanent centre in Barnsley.
The Zero Ice Centre will build on the success of the mobile ice rinks that have been used in the area over recent months by providing a permanent site for ice skating in addition to a children’s soft play area, games areas and snack bar in a family friendly environment.
An application for planning permission to change the ex Carpet World shop on Lambra Road into the family entertainment centre has been submitted and it is hoped that approval for the project will be given by the end of September.
Vicky Oliver, Director of Oak Initiatives, commented “The Zero Ice Centre will be operated as a social enterprise which means that all the profits will be put back into the centre to improve facilities as the centre develops and to encourage active involvement in sport across Barnsley.”
Backed by Barnsley Development Agency (BDA), Social Enterprise Barnsley (SEB) and South Yorkshire Key Fund, the centre is also looking to attract additional funding from sponsorship and advertising opportunities within the building and interest has already been expressed by many local companies.
Peter Lodge, Business Adviser with Social Enterprise Barnsley, said “The aim of the centre is to appeal to families by offering something suitable for all age groups. Pool tables, air hockey and other games are planned for older children and a soft play area for under fives is also being designed. The centre will be a welcome addition to Barnsley’s leisure facilities”.
The centre will include a small ice rink that can be used for private hire for occasions such as children’s birthday parties, with buffet style catering provided by the snack bar. This will be available as soon as the centre opens - with a larger rink to follow later in the year.
Gary Field, director of Get Ya Skates On Ltd, is hoping the centre will be open by mid October and said, “There is a lot of hard work to do to get everything ready in such a short time but the new team at Zero Ice will pull out all the stops to meet our deadlines and open in time for the school half term in October”.
The Zero Ice Centre will be recruiting for reception and general hospitality staff in early October - for further information ring Sue on 01226 771805. For further details of birthday parties and group bookings, or if you would like information about advertising or sponsorship opportunities, ring Emma on 01226 207662.
If you have a business idea that also has a community benefit, Social Enterprise Barnsley can help with business and funding advice. To speak to a business adviser telephone BDA on 01226 787540.
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