Inverness Ice Centre seeks crowdfunding amid rising energy costs

Inverness Ice Centre is launching a crowdfunding campaign to raise funds necessary for its survival amidst soaring energy costs, which have increased its monthly expenses from £12,000 to £30,000. The center, which operates as a charity, has been exploring various strategies, including the potential sale of adjacent property and the installation of solar panels to mitigate energy costs. Chairman Michael Green and CEO Gordon Barron emphasized that 44 jobs depend on the facility, which has experienced a significant financial strain over the past two years. Despite considering asset liquidation, the board decided to focus on community support through crowdfunding for the immediate future. The center has creatively maintained operations by transforming into an events venue during the off-ice season, hosting various events to generate revenue. Other ice rinks in Scotland have also faced similar challenges, highlighting a broader crisis in the sector.