The Vancouver Canucks are in discussions to expand Britannia Rink, but the proposed facility will not include additional ice, raising concerns for community programs like the Women and Gender Diverse Hockey League that serve a vital part of the local hockey ecosystem. The rink is essential not only for minor hockey but also for diverse community groups, particularly women’s hockey, which has operated for over three decades at this location. Local players stress the need for preserving access to affordable ice time that promotes inclusivity and accessibility for all skill levels.

By the Numbers
  • Women’s community hockey at Britannia has been active for over 30 years.
  • Players pay less than $10 per ice time at Britannia, while other rinks charge over $30.
State of Play
  • Vancouver is currently facing a shortage of ice time for hockey programs across the city.
  • The Britannia facility caters to various community activities, emphasizing the need for more ice availability.
What's Next

Discussions around Britannia's expansion could impact the sustainability of community programs, especially if no additional ice becomes available. Stakeholders may need to advocate for more comprehensive planning that includes community needs in future ice facility developments.

Bottom Line

Ensuring access to ice time for community-oriented programs is essential for the growth of hockey in Vancouver. The city should prioritize inclusive and affordable opportunities for all players to participate in the sport, which will become increasingly difficult without addressing the existing ice shortage.