08/05/2008

LAST CHANCE LAGOON

After very positive discussions with Renfrewshire Council, the Pirates are hoping for a decision from them soon which could enable the Pirates to return to their home rink at The Lagoon next season.

The Lagoon ice pad floor needs replaced after underground drainage problems meant the rink was forced to close two years ago. It will cost in the region of £750k to repair and it is hoped the work - which will take 10 weeks - will be completed by September and the start of the new season.

The Pirates have been playing at Braehead Arena, but with their costs rising and no security of tenure or long-term assurances over the availability of the ice rink facility, the Pirates have found themselves potentially homeless and drifting along once more.

A final decision is expected from Renfrewshire Council soon, who are currently pondering whether to financially support Braehead to help reduce their costs for local ice users, or repair the Lagoon.

Meanwhile the Pirates and their fans are hoping the matter is sorted out soon and the only senior ice hockey team in the west of Scotland can return to its home rink and start planning for next season.