Welland Arena back up and running

Rentals start today (September 7) at the Welland Arena as crew successfully installed ice to both the main and youth arenas.

The main arena is slated to start today while the youth surface will start being rented September 17.

Despite the recent heatwave, Rob Axiak, director of community services, said the arena’s systems functioned exceptionally well, and the outside temperature was not a factor in completing the installation.

“Seeing ice on the pads is a sure sign of the fall season and the programs we offer at our arenas,” he added.

“City staff have done an excellent job preparing the buildings and gearing up to welcome the community back after a lengthy absence, and everyone is excited to see skaters back on the ice.”

Ice installation takes several days. The entire process takes about 17 days to complete, starting with the refrigeration system, laying down water, painting the ice, and painting the lines.

Roughly 10 days after staff paint the ice, skaters can use the surface. Though the installation takes a few days, only about an inch and a half of ice is assembled on the concrete pad underneath, and staff are meticulous in their applications to get it right.

When open to the public, the arena will follow the City’s reopening plan regarding procedures and protocols, keeping all staff, visitors, and users safe while in the facility.

These measures include: 

• Passive screening for all visitors.
• Fans are permitted in the stands.
• Masks are required unless participating in physical activity.
• 50 per cent maximum capacity in an indoor setting.

City programming will return in October, including all ages skates, shinny hockey, and public skating. All programming information is made available at wellness.welland.ca when available. Booking ice rentals are available through the recreation department by calling 905-735-1700, ext 4000 or emailing [email protected].