Planning Submitted for New Community Ice Rink in Bracknell’s Employment Area
The Challenge
ET Planning was appointed by Ozone Hockey to secure change of use and advertisement consent for the conversion of a vacant warehouse in Bracknell into a new community ice rink. The proposed site, located within a designated core employment area, had stood empty for over a year following the closure of the former John Nike Stadium. The application aimed to provide a dedicated training facility for ice skaters and local users, while addressing a clear local gap in recreational provision. However, key planning challenges needed to be addressed: Change of use from employment to leisure use in a designated employment zone. Ensuring the proposal aligned with local economic policies while demonstrating wider community benefit. Managing car parking, public access, and transport sustainability in a busy urban area.
Our Approach
ET Planning led the planning application process, working closely with Hives Architects to produce a comprehensive scheme tailored to both operational and policy requirements. Justification of employment area use: We demonstrated that the change of use would reactivate a long-vacant building and generate new employment opportunities, supporting the local economy in a different but still policy-compliant way. Community and viability benefit: We emphasised the need for a cost-efficient, accessible training venue following the loss of the John Nike Stadium, and set out how the new facility would meet a pressing local need. Transport and access strategy: A managed parking strategy was submitted, alongside measures to encourage sustainable travel, including cycle provision and public transport incentives. Collaborative working: The application was developed in close partnership with the design team at Hives Architects and submitted with supporting documentation that addressed policy alignment, usage, and operational plans. The application is now under consideration with Bracknell Forest Council. If approved, the new rink will offer a permanent home for competitive training and public skating in Bracknell—securing long-term social and economic value for the local area. Need advice on a leisure or community change of use? Contact ET Planning for planning support tailored to complex or constrained locations.
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