Councillors in Moray have said they will continue to support an ice rink in Elgin.

The support comes after it was revealed the centre's ice-making plant needed replacing in order to conform to new European legislation on the type of refrigerant that can be used.

As a result, it is understood Councillors were asked if they wished to continue supporting the venture, which is located at Moray Leisure Centre. A motion to support the rink, and install a new, replacement ice plant was the preferred option.

A motion by Councillor Douglas Ross to continue support for the ice rink, and that a new ice plant was the preferred option in overcoming the legislation and securing the future operation of the rink, was carried unanimously.

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According to the local authority, the motion by Councillor Douglas Ross called for plans for a new plant to be submitted as soon as possible, while a service level agreement between the council and the board of Moray Leisure would go to the next meet of the full council for discussion.

Councillor Ross welcomed the support for his motion, saying: "This decision will give an assurance to the many users of the rink that the council is committed to its future and will spend a little more money to install a new plant rather than investing in other potential short-term measures.

"By opting for the new plant funding is available from SportScotland, it will replace a system which was not new when it was installed when the leisure centre was built and it should be more efficient and therefore reduce the running costs.

"The overall message is that the ice rink's future is guaranteed and the council has agreed an option for the ice plant which provides security for the long-term future of the facility."

(JP/MH)