Reopen the ice rink at Olive Convention Center


Reopen the ice rink at Olive Convention Center
The Issue
Ice skating is more than just a hobby or a form of entertainment—it has been a significant part of my life since I was just five years old. I grew up skating, and I even excelled to become a competitive ice hockey player. However, this journey has come to a halt due to the closure of the full-sized ice rink at the Olive Convention Center. Without this crucial facility, aspiring ice skaters and ice hockey players in Durban are deprived of the opportunity to pursue their dreams and showcase their talents.
The Olive Convention Center's ice rink was a central hub for ice sports enthusiasts across KwaZulu-Natal. It was not only the sole full-sized rink in Durban but also one of only two in the entire province. The rink was more than just a place to skate; it provided a community space for families, friends, and sports teams to gather and share their passion.
The closure of this rink dates back to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the easing of restrictions and the gradual reopening of amenities elsewhere, the rink remains closed. This continued closure is not only disappointing but is also in violation of a high court ruling. Olive Marketing CC was mandated by the court to maintain an open rink on erf 12424, which they have clearly failed to uphold.
It is time for us, the community of Durban and the stakeholders in our vibrant ice sports community, to rally together to demand the reopening of this vital facility. We believe that with enough support and pressure, Olive Marketing CC can be persuaded to comply with their obligations and bring back a key piece of our community infrastructure.
By reopening the rink, we will not only reinstate a beloved community pastime but also rejuvenate the livelihoods of many who work within the skating community in Durban. It will also afford children and adults alike the chance to skate, play, and grow in a sport they adore.
Join us in this cause and let your voice be heard. Sign the petition to urge Olive Marketing CC to act on their commitment and reopen the ice rink at the Olive Convention Center. Together, we can make this change happen and return our cherished ice rink to the people of Durban!
125
The Issue
Ice skating is more than just a hobby or a form of entertainment—it has been a significant part of my life since I was just five years old. I grew up skating, and I even excelled to become a competitive ice hockey player. However, this journey has come to a halt due to the closure of the full-sized ice rink at the Olive Convention Center. Without this crucial facility, aspiring ice skaters and ice hockey players in Durban are deprived of the opportunity to pursue their dreams and showcase their talents.
The Olive Convention Center's ice rink was a central hub for ice sports enthusiasts across KwaZulu-Natal. It was not only the sole full-sized rink in Durban but also one of only two in the entire province. The rink was more than just a place to skate; it provided a community space for families, friends, and sports teams to gather and share their passion.
The closure of this rink dates back to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the easing of restrictions and the gradual reopening of amenities elsewhere, the rink remains closed. This continued closure is not only disappointing but is also in violation of a high court ruling. Olive Marketing CC was mandated by the court to maintain an open rink on erf 12424, which they have clearly failed to uphold.
It is time for us, the community of Durban and the stakeholders in our vibrant ice sports community, to rally together to demand the reopening of this vital facility. We believe that with enough support and pressure, Olive Marketing CC can be persuaded to comply with their obligations and bring back a key piece of our community infrastructure.
By reopening the rink, we will not only reinstate a beloved community pastime but also rejuvenate the livelihoods of many who work within the skating community in Durban. It will also afford children and adults alike the chance to skate, play, and grow in a sport they adore.
Join us in this cause and let your voice be heard. Sign the petition to urge Olive Marketing CC to act on their commitment and reopen the ice rink at the Olive Convention Center. Together, we can make this change happen and return our cherished ice rink to the people of Durban!
125
Petition Updates
Share this petition
Petition created on 10 October 2025