Hertsmere Leisure has been announced as the preferred operator for the new ice rink to be developed in Southampton.

Colin Warburg of Warburg Property Developments (WPD), the man behind the ambitious scheme, commented; "I am delighted to be able to work with such an experienced leisure management operator as Hertsmere Leisure and I know they will embrace my philosophy of ensuring the Southampton Ice Rink becomes an attraction for all residents and visitors to the City.

"Their extensive knowledge and approach to the operation, promotion and management of leisure facilities will ensure that the ice rink is something the whole of Southampton can be proud of."

Phil Collins, Chief Executive of Hertsmere Leisure echoed Colin's sentiments by adding that he felt the partnership between WPD and Hertsmere Leisure was a recipe for success.

"With Colin's extensive local knowledge and unstinting efforts to provide a valuable amenity for Southampton coupled with our desire to provide high quality services for the whole of the community, the provision of the Ice Rink in Southampton can only lead to great things. Our status as a registered charity means that we must provide relevant services for the public good which is precisely what we will be doing."

Negotiations between the two parties are at an advanced stage and they are currently working closely together to submit a bid for support funding through the Sustainable Facilities funding administered by Sport England.