The Time Capsule ice rink in Coatbridge is at risk of closure in a move that could force young athletes to travel as far as Stirling to train.
The rink is home to youth ice hockey and figure skating teams, some of whom have competed at an international level.
Parents warn that losing the facility would leave many with no realistic way to continue in the sport.
Nine-year-old Valentina Fella has been figure skating since she was four years old.
“I love it because it’s so fun going to compete for my rink. I have a lot of friends here.
“I wouldn’t know as many people there if I went to another rink.”
But the proposed closure of her home rink could spell the end of her dreams and those of more than 150 children.
Alongside figure skating, the rink supports three ice hockey teams and an inclusive skating group. The nearest alternatives are in East Kilbride and Stirling.
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STV NewsMum Jennifer says the pair have gone most mornings and evenings for the past five years.
“There were tears, for both Valentina and me, because it feels like you’re telling her her sport doesn’t matter, that she doesn’t matter.
“There are so few girls in sport in Scotland, and to have a female space so positively taken away seems so incredibly unfair.
“This isn’t something where you can just go somewhere else. Most other clubs are full – 60 members won’t be absorbed.
“The vast majority are going to have to give up the sport. They certainly won’t be able to compete. They could skate recreationally, but it would involve more travel.
“You’re talking about the end, to be honest.”
Under proposals being considered by North Lanarkshire Council, the rink would be replaced with a soft play and padel courts.
The decision, supposed to be made on Monday, has been delayed until June following protest and a petition with more than 13,000 signatures.
Al Goold
STV NewsCoaches say the loss would be felt far beyond the ice.
“We’ve got Learn to Skate programmes, a figure skating club, seven hockey teams, synchronised skating and an inclusive club,” says Gemma Chaddock. “There are also public sessions catered for recreational skaters and family days out.
“There really is something for everyone.”
She said the young figure skaters are “disciplined” – but without the local rink, many will be forced to give up.
“Our kids train at 6.30 in the morning before school, then once they finish school they come back to training at night. It’s just not possible to drive to the other side of Scotland to get to an ice rink.
“I’ve seen generations of kids that have performed and achieved so much here in Coatbridge – it has been fantastic. To tell these kids that it’s no longer an option for them is devastating.”
Rhiannon, who coaches synchronised skating, described the rink as a “safe space” for young people.
“It gets them off iPads and off the streets for a while, and gives them structure.
“It’s hard to put into words what it means to us and what it actually provides. It’s such a unique place and integral to the area.”
,23 April 2026, Picture: Al Goold (www.algooldphoto.com)
Samantha Hamill’s son has been playing ice hockey since he was 14 – and is now coaching too.
“Ice hockey gives him a sense of purpose.. It keeps him fit and focused in an area that doesn’t have an awful lot of opportunities for children to do that.
“The determination and confidence it’s given him – losing it would leave him without an outlet, and at that age that can lead to problems.”
She described plans to replace the rink as “out of the blue”.
“They don’t feel very robust or properly researched,” she added. “It doesn’t feel thoroughly thought out.”
STV NewsLanarkshire Lightning head coach Martyn King says the club has grown from eight kids to 150 since it was founded in 2013.
“It’s more than a hockey club. Bonds are formed in this rink, lifelong friends. It’s our home.
“Everybody who comes here is dedicated. Ice hockey is a big commitment – and an expensive sport.
“It’s not just money, but time. Kids start at five and progress all the way up. Some people spend more time here than they do at home.
“The kids are devastated. They’re full of questions – what’s going to happen now? Where do we go? There are no alternative facilities at the moment, so there’s uncertainty about the future.”
The council has paused its consultation, a move welcomed by clubs and families.
For young skaters like Valentina, the message is clear: “Don’t melt my dreams.”
A spokesperson for North Lanarkshire Council said: “The report on the proposed redevelopment of the Time Capsule will now go before a meeting of the full council on Thursday, June 25.
“This will allow time for further engagement with individual users and groups as well as the wider community.”
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