Stuart’s Rollerworld Averts Closure but May Move Anyway

Stuart’s Rollerworld, the roller-hockey rink beloved by sports fans and despised by neighboring homeowners, may move to Anaheim or remain in the city under stricter conditions.

The rink’s owner narrowly avoided closure Tuesday when he rushed plans for required improvements at Rollerworld to city planners, meeting a 5 p.m. deadline by minutes.

Meanwhile, Stuart Silver said he has reached a deal to build an indoor, air-conditioned roller-hockey center in Anaheim, although he may keep the Orange rink open because of its popularity with local players.

“As I stand right now, I might have both or I might move to Anaheim,” he said.

In July, council members gave Silver 90 days to meet a number of conditions to keep operating, including a more attractive tent covering and a 9 p.m. closing time. At the time, he refused to change his closing from 10 p.m., saying local leagues would not have time to play their games.

Now Silver said he will abide by the rules.

But he has submitted a letter to the city asking if he can keep operating under the old rules should he decide to close the business and move.

City Council members will consider that request at their meeting Tuesday, Community Development Director Jack McGee said.

The decision will mark another step in a feud between Silver and neighbors that has been building since the rink opened at Super Sports Golf & Recreation Center on Canal Street and Meats Avenue.

Neighbors have been complaining about noise, lights and other problems to officials with the city and school district, which leased the site of a vacant junior high school to Super Sports in 1994.