Unexpected repairs at Memorial Arena are throwing a wrench into plans for the upcoming hockey season.
Municipal officials say annual testing of the compressor room system at the Tweedsmuir Avenue rink uncovered a leak under the floor as well as issues with the piping itself.
Repairs will be made, but officials say it will take an extra three weeks to get the ice made and the arena ready for use.
Originally expected to open September 5th, Memorial Arena will now be closed until September 26th, moving several events, including the Chatham Maroons final pre-season game and GOJHL home opener, to another rink.
Erickson Arena, in Chatham’s northeast end, will now be opening early on September 6th to ensure ice times are available for the start of the skating season.
Ice times at other arenas throughout Chatham-Kent may also be affected to accommodate the increased need. Anyone with questions about ice times or arena availability is asked to call 311.
