Local groups push to keep Steuart Arena open in Prince Albert

WATCH: The future of Prince Albert’s Steuart Arena remains up in the air. The city announced that it's accepting formal expressions of interest.

The future of Prince Albert’s Steuart Arena remains uncertain as the city considers its options.

The arena is currently set to close its doors after the winter/spring season, but local groups are advocating for it to remain operational.

The city is accepting formal expressions of interest from parties interested in using the building.

Prince Albert Hockey is one of the groups pushing for the arena to stay open. General Manager Trevor Redden believes there is enough demand for ice time to justify keeping the rink open.

“I would expect that the number of kids playing minor hockey in Prince Albert [is] going to grow over the next five, ten years, as well if the population continues to grow,” said Redden. “I’m just happy that [the city is] including us in the conversation.”

Prince Albert Hockey says it’s been making use of facilities outside of the city and unreliable natural ice surfaces.

Ward 1 Councillor Daniel Brown says keeping the arena open longer will give the city a better idea of how much the ice time will be needed after the two Lake Country Co-op Leisure Centre rinks open this spring.

“Lacrosse also uses that rink, ball hockey uses that rink, the skating club uses that rink,” said Brown. “There is a need for it.”

Brown says the extra surface would keep families from having to drive out of town for ice time. “If we keep this rink open, we don’t have to put those people in those situations for some treacherous highway driving in the winter.”

Other organizations like the Prince Albert Exhibition Association have confirmed interest in obtaining the building.

CTV News reached out to the city but has not heard back at this time.