24 November 2011
Snowsports enthusiasts are being given a sneak peek at how the proposed £1/2million slope developments might look at Midlothian Snowsports Centre at Hillend.
Planned improvements include:
- An additional 210 metre slope on the hill
- 80 metres of new nursery slope
- Extension and improvement work to the existing nursery slopes with new, safer ski matting
- Exciting new snowtubing runs
- Installation of two new travellator uplift systems
Midlothian Council, which owns and runs Midlothian Snowsports Centre, has worked closely with an expert team of designers on the plans. The developments are designed to improve the skiing experience for beginners as well as regular skiers and snowboarders.
This is in addition to the enhanced, new snowtubing facilities which are sure to be a fun new way for non-skiers/snowboarders to take to the slopes.
Councillor Derek Milligan, Leader Midlothian Council, said: "This impression shows the exciting potential for development at Midlothian Snowsports Centre at Hillend.
"We know there is huge enthusiasm out there for the centre and these proposals are designed to offer something for everyone, whether it's snowtubing, learning to ski on the new, safer nursery slopes or choosing a different slope from the top of the chair lift.
"If the plans get the necessary planning consents we expect customers to be able to use the existing facilities and slopes as normal throughout the winter."
The proposed developments will cost around £1/2million and are being paid for by funding secured from Sportscotland, the national agency for sport.
Chief Executive of sportscotland Stewart Harris said: "Seeing the plans for this project demonstrates the real potential of Midlothian Snowsports Centre. The enhancements will create more quality opportunities for people to get involved in snowsports and we are delighted to be working in partnership with Midlothian Council to ensure the long term sustainability of the centre."
A planning application detailing the proposals was submitted in October to Midlothian Council for consideration by the planning committee.