As we continue celebrating ten years of GT3, we’re looking back at the projects that have shaped our journey.
Originally constructed in the mid-1980s as the home of the Slough Jets ice hockey team, Slough Ice Arena had long been an important part of the local community. Over time, however, the building needed to evolve, not just to improve its quality, but to support a broader mix of activities and meet changing expectations.
We were brought in to reimagine the arena, with an ambition to transform it into a more engaging and commercially sustainable leisure destination. The aim was to retain its role at the heart of the community while introducing new experiences that would attract a wider range of users.
The scheme centred around a two-storey extension, creating a clear and welcoming entrance alongside a café, gym and climbing wall. This added over 1,000sqm of space and helped redefine the building’s presence, supported by a full refurbishment of the existing arena and extensive landscaping to better connect it to its surroundings.
Judith Atkinson, Senior Architect, reflects: “Slough Ice Arena was about unlocking the potential of an existing building and rethinking how it could better serve the community.
“The extension allowed us to completely redefine the arrival experience, while the additional facilities broadened its appeal, ensuring it could support a much wider range of users.”
Alongside the physical transformation, the scheme introduced an enhanced leisure offer. The completed facility included an ice rink with fully glazed barriers, upgraded changing facilities, spectator seating, as well as a gym, climbing wall and café, creating a destination that supported both everyday use and more specialist activities.
Working closely with Slough Borough Council, the project formed part of a wider programme of investment in leisure across the borough, with a clear focus on encouraging more people to be active, more often.
A representative from Slough Borough Council, said: “The transformation of Slough Ice Arena created a modern, vibrant leisure destination for the town.
“The improved facilities have helped attract a wider range of visitors while continuing to support the local community, playing an important role in promoting healthier lifestyles and supporting wellbeing across the borough.”
Delivered ahead of programme, the arena opened in 2018 as a fully integrated facility, allowing the community to benefit from the complete offer from day one.
The project was recognised for its impact, including receiving Best Leisure Architecture UK at the International Property Awards, reflecting the success of its transformation and the strength of the collaborative approach behind it.
Looking back, it’s a great example of how existing buildings can be reimagined to meet modern needs, extending their lifespan while strengthening their role within the community.
As part of our ten-year series, Slough Ice Arena represents another step in the journey, a project shaped by adaptation, collaboration and a clear focus on creating places that continue to evolve with the people who use them.
Another chapter in the story of People Architecture!