Iceland: Former Gold Coast ice skating rink site to become self-storage warehouse

The former home of the Gold Coast’s ice skating rink will be demolished and transformed into a new development. FIND OUT MORE

The former home of the Gold Coast’s ice skating rink will be demolished and transformed into a self-storage complex.

The 3704 sqm site on Bundall’s Strathaird Road is the subject of a fresh development application before the Gold Coast City Council from developer John Potter, who has owned the land for many years.

Under the proposal, a pair of two-storey buildings on the site will become home to 21 warehouse units, 10 of which will be used for self-storage.

The old building will be demolished. Picture: Supplied

The units, which will be between 119 sqm and 182 sqm, will also have mezzanine levels.

A three-bedroom caretaker’s unit will be built at the back of the land overlooking the Nerang River.

Ownership of the Bundall property on Strathaird Road has changed several times in recent years.

In 2017 a NSW investor bought it for $2.4m, while it was then snapped up in 2020 by Mr Potter’s Potter Group for $2.8m.

Mr Potter later announced plans for a $10.5m strata-titled warehouse development project.

A previous storage unit complex was approved for the site in late 2024.

Iceland closed suddenly in January after nearly 30 years in business.

Artist impression of a new warehouse development planned for Bundall on the former site of the Iceland ice skating rink. Picture: Supplied

Grahame and Sharon Sullivan, who first opened the complex with Mrs Sullivan’s father Patrick Burley, said via a statement that they wanted to “keep the spirit of Iceland alive”.

“The decision to close this beloved rink has not been an easy one – rising insurance premiums and operating costs have made it impossible to continue (and) like many in the industry, we’ve faced challenges beyond resolution,” they said.

“We want to thank everyone who has been part of this journey – skaters, coaches, players, parents, and supporters. You’ve all helped make Iceland the special place it was.

“While the Bundall rink has now closed, the next generation is dedicated to carrying the brand forward and we remain optimistic about Iceland’s future as we look to find a new location.

“Thank you all for your unwavering support (and while) Iceland may be closing its doors, the impact it has had on so many lives will live on forever.”

Iceland was announced in late 1995 by Mr Burley, a legendary skating figure who opened rinks across Australia and had built special facilities for Torvill and Dean.

Mr and Mrs Sullivan said the decision to close had been difficult and had been made with “heavy hearts”.

“For decades, it has been a home for skaters, hockey players, and ice sports fans of all ages,” they said.

“Gold Coast Iceland was not just a rink – it was a legacy, a place where we made lifelong memories and formed many lasting relationships.”