DETAILED plans are being drawn up for the £13.8 million redevelopment of Midlothian Snowsports Centre, Midlothian Council has confirmed.
Under the proposals, the existing facility would be transformed into a ‘major’ winter sports tourist destination with the build of a new carbon neutral main building, alongside a zip line, alpine coaster, glamping complex, café, fine dining area, soft play area, function suite, and a retail unit.
Midlothian Council said that the Destination Hillend project is expected to create between 55 and 80 full-time equivalent jobs directly, with a further 11-16 full-time equivalent roles supported indirectly by the facility annually.
Midlothian Council’s cabinet member for economic development, councillor Russell Imrie, said, “Destination Hillend will be a major tourist destination bringing increased visitor numbers – as many as 600,000 people a year – and significant economic benefits to the local Midlothian area while generating income to be re-invested into council services.
“We’re very excited about the plans for this family attraction, which will safeguard the future of Midlothian Snowsports Centre while ensuring people in Midlothian and elsewhere can enjoy all snowsports from beginner to advanced levels.
“The agreement to build a net carbon zero main building is also a key milestone in our climate change Strategy helping us towards our commitment of becoming carbon neutral by 2030.”
