ICE sports' enthusiasts have pinpointed a glass company warehouse as a potential venue for a new rink facility.

Proposals to convert premises in Pallion, Sunderland, were revealed yesterday by members of the city's ice hockey club.

The redevelopment plans were drawn up following the continued closure of Sunderland's Crowtree Leisure Centre ice rink, almost two years after leaks forced the city council to put it out of use.

Talks have taken place between club members and Sunderland City Council over the possibility of reopening the leisure centre rink, but the cost of repairs is considered prohibitive.

The warehouse, in Woodbine Terrace, occupied by Mayflower Glass, has been earmarked as a suitable site.

Club secretary Rob Laidler said it could house a rink of 56 metres by 25 metres, the same size as the Crowtree ice pad.

"We're talking about a cost of £200,000, so it's a major investment," said Mr Laidler. "But the building is in pretty good shape and, being an open space, there's not much to do to it. The biggest cost would be the rink itself."

He said it would need to be up and running by September, for the start of the ice hockey season, but said the club could put "money on the table".

Officials hope the city council will co-fund the venture, providing a home in Sunderland for a club which has had to use facilities in Whitley Bay and Newcastle for two years.