Woodstock issues public service announcement following online backlash surrounding potential closure of long-running AYR Motor Centre service
Woodstock Council will address a sharp controversy at its regular council meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 27.
On Thursday, Feb. 22, the town issued a public service announcement stating that plans surrounding skate-sharpening services at the AYR Motor Centre would be on the agenda at next Tuesday’s meeting.
The social media uproar began earlier in the week after the arena-using public heard that facility officials decided the room long used by J.A.D.E.’s Edges, operated by Barry Scott for skate-sharpening, would become office space.
Online chatter spread quickly, noting the business, known to many users as Barry’s room, would close on March 15.
Town officials responded to the online concerns, calling the situation a “misunderstanding.”
“We have been made aware of some misunderstandings being circulated on social media around operational planning at the AYR Motor Centre, which potentially impact services to the public,” the town explained in its public service announcement. “In order to adequately balance and manage the services offered out of such a dynamic facility, there are many factors behind the scenes which affect our decisions.”
The town said increased youth activity participation at the rink and field house created a strain on available space in the facility.
The statement explained that staff updated the council about the spacing issues at the AYR Motor Centre this week, after which it added it to the Feb. 27 agenda.
“Council had asked for the background and necessary information in regards to the service levels offered by the skate shop, the potential changes in the location within the AYR Motor Centre, and/or changes to any services.,” the town explained in the announcement. “A final decision will be made after that.”
The town statement added it is investigating possibly relocating the service to an alternate location within the arena.
