AN ice hockey club has declared victory after facing off with the city council in a long-running parking row which saw fans facing ‘obscene’ charges.
Oxford City Council initially refused to budge on calls to reduce car parking fees at Oxpens car park for Oxford City Stars' Sunday night matches at the ice rink.
They currently cost visitors £12 to park for the night – more than the £10 match ticket.
Faced with a growing backlash from fans, the council has now backed down and yesterday the club announced it had secured a £5 promotional tariff for match-goers.
Club Director James Schall said: “This is a huge win for our fans and also, importantly, any away fans who want to come to our city but feel priced out of travel.
“This reduced charge is a really positive act from Oxford City Council and recognises the massive growth of ice hockey in recent seasons.
"It's something I am sure they are wanting to celebrate and help develop further."
Oxford city councillor and board member for leisure, parks and sport, Linda Smith, also praised the climb down and said it would help the club grow and secure more fans from further afield.
She said: “Oxford ice rink is a fantastic council owned leisure facility and Oxford City Stars have an important role in helping us make it a success.
“I'm pleased to have been able to work with colleagues responsible for Oxpens car park to come up with this special promotional tariff for spectators at their home matches.
“I hope it will help the club grow its support base and go from strength to strength through encouraging even more people to visit the rink".
Fellow director Russell Shrives said: “I would like to thank Linda for her work in establishing this opportunity. It’s another positive step in the way ice hockey is being perceived in the wonderful city of Oxford, and I’m excited about the opportunities this gives us to expand our already blossoming support."
The special parking tariff will be priced at £5 for five hours of parking between 5pm and 10pm during Oxford City Stars fixtures at Oxpens Road car park.
The tariff must be booked via Ringo, either using an online app or by calling and using a unique code which will be made available on match nights to match-goers.
The offer will be launched in August and will be in place for the entire 2017/18 season.
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