Mild Weather Forces Closure of Public Skating Oval


February 25, 2016

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Brandon, MB – The City of Brandon’s Community Services Department would like to advise the public that sustained mild weather being experienced in Brandon in recent weeks has forced the closure of the skating oval in the area of McGregor Avenue for the remainder of the season, effective first thing Friday morning.

Multiple periods of freeze-thaw temperatures have resulted in many unsafe sections of ice around the oval, and given the likelihood for more mild weather in the forecast, crews are unable to keep up with the maintenance required. As such, the oval will close for the season as of 11 p.m. today.

“Oval Closed” signs will be placed at the oval and all associated flood lighting and the Manitoba Hydro Power Smart Waterfall of Lights will be turned off. The area’s warming shacks will also no longer be available for public use. The City wishes to advise that anyone skating on the oval surface subsequent to this evening’s hours of operation is doing so at their own risk.

Meanwhile, an adequate amount of snow cover remains at Hanbury Hill to allow flood lighting and the hill’s warming shack to remain available to the public at this time. The public is also still able to use the sledding hill and the cross-country skiing trails at the Wheat City Golf Course; however, the skiing trails will not be maintained for the remainder of the winter.

The City of Brandon thanks all users of its outdoor recreational facilities for enjoying the spaces with respect and keeping them in good condition for all to enjoy.