Gloucester dry ski slope sold to new owners (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

Gloucester dry ski slope sold to new owners

12:14pm Monday 6th August 2012 in News

THE only dry ski and snowboard slope in Gloucestershire has been sold to new owners with ambitious plans for expension.

Facilities at the Gloucester centre will be improved and upgraded and the new owners intend to extend the length of the slope.

The new owner is Gloucester Sport and Leisure, which acquired the Gloucester Ski & Snowboard Centre at the city's Robinswood Hill.

Managing director Mark Hamilton-Davies, said: "We want to improve and modernise the site but our ambition is to restore it to its former glory by extending the main run to 250 metres. We’re already working with the team at the centre to get plans underway."

Other plans include rebranding the existing café and bar, and a new fully stocked equipment shop.

South West Ski Association Chairman Stuart Robertson said: "It’s an extremely exciting time for the centre. As someone who has been skiing there for over 30 years, I’m very excited by the plans to restore it to its former glory.

"With the new extended slope due to be completed by the end of September, it won’t be long before we see significant improvements to the facilities. "I am sure that this will also help promote snowsports within the region and will get more people interested in taking up skiing and snowboarding."

An opening event will be held on August 11 between 12 noon and 10pm with attractions including live bands, professional BMX and scooter demonstrations and a 15m x 9m giant ‘air bag’. Advance tickets start at £10 for adults and £5 for students and the under 16s. Children aged five and under go free. Tickets are available online at: www.bristolticketshop.co.uk The snowsports venue was put on the market by previous owner Jupiter Hotels in April 2012. Gloucester Sport and Leisure is a partnership between OpalTec International Ltd and two other shareholders.

The new owners are putting together a calendar of future events, promotional offers for families, local community groups, charities, businesses and sports clubs. For more information, visit gloucesterski.com