Scottish Dry Slope Saved From Closure
Scottish Dry Slope Saved From Closure
Published : 03-Dec-2024 07:55
Polmonthill Snowsports Centre, a dry ski centre established more than 50 years ago, which had been earmarked for closure more than a year ago, has been taken over by the local community.
Local community volunteers have formed a charity, the Polmonthill Community Snowsports Centre, to run the slope with a short-term lease from Falkirk Council while they await the result of a Community Asset Transfer application, the decision on which is expected next year.
Michael Alexander, co Trustee of the new charity told the Falkirk Herald: "It's a very surreal moment to be standing here with keys to the centre in our hands – after what has been a long year of research, planning and hard work. A big thank you to everyone who has helped get us to this point, it's amazing what can be achieved when everyone comes together and works in the same direction."
The new Trust has a year to show that we can operate the slope and centre in a profitable manner. The charity has reviewed the slope's opening hours to ensure its available at times of greatest demand and has set up a new website when its possible to make bookings for lessons at http://www.polmonthill.co.uk
Polmonthill was the latest dry ski centre to be threatened with closure in the UK with numbers down from around 300 slopes at the peak 50 years ago to nearer 70 today.
"Skiing and boarding are such great sports and research even suggests that they really helps reduce stress, lower anxiety and build confidence. Skiing all year round means kids can enjoy being outdoors and learning a life-long skill. We are so lucky to be able to continue to have access to Polmonthill and enjoy snowsports in a more affordable way," Michael added.
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