Shailesh Vara MP has written to Mike Petrouis, Managing Director of Planet Ice in Peterborough, asking him to review the planned increase in fees for Figure Skating coaches.

 

Planet Ice has recently changed the conditions under which the facilities can be used by figure skating coaches, substantially increasing their weekly rent to £300. As a result a number of coaches will find it not viable to continue to work at Planet Ice. A parking charge has also been introduced at times that will only affect figure skaters.

 

Planet Ice is used by skaters of all abilities and ages and also by those with medical conditions such as Asperger’s syndrome or Crohn’s disease for whom the sport is of immense benefit. Mr Vara feels that the plans could have serious implications for both figure skaters and their coaches.

 

Mr Vara has also written to Jennie Price, Chief Executive of Sport England, concerning the fee increase and asked her if there is any way in which Sport England can help local skaters.

 

Mr Vara said:

 

“I am very concerned about the changes made by Planet Ice. The increased fees will have a negative effect on Figure Skating in the area as we have a number of Figure Skaters set to compete at the British Championships later this year. This change in the rent will severely limit the chances of those hoping to compete at the event.

 

Access to sporting facilities, particularly for the young, so that people can pursue their interests and maintain healthy lifestyles is important. In the case of Figure Skating this is also something of immense benefit to those with medical conditions such as Asperger’s syndrome or Crohn’s disease. This move by Planet Ice may well lead to a reduction in the number of people taking part in the sport and I very much hope that there will be a review of the rent increase.”