Singapore is set to welcome a brand-new Olympic-size ice rink in Pandan Gardens, offering a much-needed boost to the country’s winter sports scene. With the closure of the JCube ice rink in 2023, athletes and enthusiasts have been left without a full-sized training facility. Now, plans are in motion to fill that gap with a state-of-the-art ice rink at the site of the former Pandan Gardens Swimming Complex.
According to documents from the Singapore Ice Hockey Association (SIHA) and the Singapore Ice Skating Association (SISA), a lease for the new rink has been confirmed for an initial 10 years, with an option to extend for another 10 years. The project is expected to begin construction in March 2025 and be completed by the end of 2026.
Why Pandan Gardens?
The former Pandan Gardens Swimming Complex, which first opened in 1978 at 200 Pandan Gardens, has been identified as a prime location for this development. It offers ample space and accessibility for athletes and recreational skaters alike.
The decision to establish a new rink in this area is expected to bring renewed interest in winter sports, providing both local and international athletes with top-tier training facilities. Currently, the only remaining ice rink in Singapore at Leisure Park Kallang is not up to international competition standards, making this new development a significant step forward.
What to Expect from the New Ice Rink?
This upcoming sports facility will feature:
- An Olympic-size ice rink for professional training, competitions, and public skating.
- A secondary smaller rink measuring one-third the size of the Olympic rink, catering to beginners and recreational skaters.
- Upgraded amenities to support figure skating, ice hockey, and other winter sports.
The rink will be a major attraction for ice sports enthusiasts, drawing international events and bolstering Singapore’s presence in winter sports competitions.
Impacts on Local Athletes and the Winter Sports Community
Since the closure of JCube’s rink in 2023, local athletes have faced challenges in training for international competitions. Many have had to travel overseas to access full-sized rinks. This new facility will provide a home base for training and competitions, reducing travel costs and logistical challenges for athletes.
According to SIHA, the new ice rink will serve as a hub for both professional and amateur skaters, helping to develop local talent and encourage more Singaporeans to take up winter sports.
Project Timeline and Development Updates
- March 2025: Construction expected to commence.
- End of 2026: Target completion date.
- Beyond 2026: Potential expansion and additional sporting events hosted at the facility.
While the final details are still being discussed, this project is already generating excitement among sports enthusiasts in Singapore.
Final Thoughts
The upcoming Olympic-size ice rink at Pandan Gardens marks a pivotal moment for Singapore’s winter sports community. With state-of-the-art facilities and a central location, it promises to be a game-changer for figure skaters, ice hockey players, and recreational skaters alike.
Stay tuned for further updates as this project progresses, and don’t forget to share this exciting news with fellow winter sports enthusiasts!
