Cheshire Jets: Doubts remain over plans for new arena after council fails to make firm commitment

Feb 17 2011 by Alec Doyle, Chester Chronicle

FEARS that plans to build a new arena for the Cheshire Jets in Ellesmere Port could be sidelined were not allayed by Cheshire West and Chester Council at a meeting of the executive this week.

Trying to highlight the importance of the scheme – which is supposed to replace the dilapidated EPIC leisure centre – council leisure chief Richard Short said: “if this comes off, it will be an absolutely first-class leisure centre that will attract people from all over the country.”

But his response did not give definite assurances the project, which the Jets need to maintain their BBL status, would be delivered.

At the executive meeting, Ellesmere Port Labour councillor Justin Madders attacked the council’s refusal to firmly commit to the scheme.

“It has been our understanding that a replacement for EPIC in the centre of Ellesmere Port would be a priority but now we are faced with a feasibility study costing £200,000,” said Cllr Madders.

“One has already been done. We have no need to spend £200,000 on another study.”

Cllr Short replied, pointing out that the Stanney Oaks site near Cheshire Oaks would not be available until the Academy school there moved and if it is to be elsewhere – Cromwell Road is believed to be the second site under consideration – CWAC would have to acquire the land to build on.