Wednesday December 2nd 2020
The first new attraction has opened as part of the council’s Destination Hillend project to develop the snowsports centre into a multi-activity leisure facility.
The new funslope has opened safely and within government coronavirus guidelines during daylight hours at Midlothian Snowsports Centre.
Scottish and GB Park and Pipe riders including former Olympian Murray Buchan and Harris Booth, were given a sneak preview of the funslope at Hillend, earlier this year.
Murray said with three different types of pitches, jumps and other features, the slope would appeal to everyone from elite athletes to beginners.
He said: “There’s nothing in Scotland at this level.”
Meanwhile Harris, who first got the ski-ing bug on a family holiday and then begged his dad to bring him to Hillend which he could see from his bedroom window, added the slope was great for some “decent tricks”.
Council Leader Councillor Derek Milligan said: “It’s been fantastic to get such positive feedback from Harris and the other freestyle skiers but it’s even better that we can now invite the public to come along and enjoy this amazing facility.
“This is really going to put the snowsports centre on the map but please remember to check with the existing coronavirus travel restrictions to make sure you can travel safely while keeping safe.”
As well as the funslope, Destination Hillend may include, subject to any necessary planning consents and other agreements and permissions:
– Zipline (highest in UK)
– Alpine coaster (longest in UK)
– New reception building for the Snowsports Centre
– Foodcourt and function space
– Associated retail space
– Glamping tourist accommodation
– Activity area with high ropes and soft play
-Hotel development opportunity
Snowsport design firm Briton Engineering delivered the 130 metre funslope. The firm has extensive expertise, with clients across the world and ongoing projects as far afield as China.
The Chief Executive of Snowsport Scotland, Trafford Wilson said:
“Snowsport Scotland is extremely excited about the new funslope at Hillend. As a sport we have a very strong Park and Pipe performance history and see this new facility playing a critical role in supporting our best athletes to continue to perform on the world stage and in bringing through the next generation of athletes to follow in their footsteps.”
Bookings are now being taken and so you can BOOK HERE.
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