There could be exciting news on the horizon for skiers in Sheffield, with plans emerging to transform the long-derelict site of the city’s former Ski Village.
New Zealand-based adventure tourism company Skyline Enterprises is advancing plans for a major new leisure development on the site, just a mile north of Sheffield city centre.
And while the proposals are still at an early stage, there is one element that will particularly interest skiers – the return of a dry ski slope.
The first phase of the project is currently expected to include downhill kartings, as well as a family playground, food and drink facilities and an indoor attraction.
However, longer-term plans could also include a zipline, surf wave experience and a dry ski slope.
Sheffield Ski Village destroyed in fire
For Sheffield’s skiing community, the prospect of skiing returning to Parkwood Springs would be particularly welcome.
The original Sheffield Ski Village was one of the largest artificial ski slopes in Europe, but it closed in 2012 following a devastating fire.
Planning application later this year
Since then, numerous attempts have been made to find a new use for the site, with little ultimately coming to fruition.
The Revive Rewild group have been lobbying to develop the site for several years. You can find out more about their work in Episode 248 of The Ski Podcast.
Skyline has agreed a strategic framework with Sheffield City Council, with a planning application expected later this year. A public consultation on the proposals is expected to begin in September.
The development is also being supported by wider investment in Parkwood Springs, including £19 million of government funding for a new access road, junction improvements and other work to improve the site.
For a city that proudly describes itself as the ‘Outdoor City’, the prospect of having somewhere to ski again on the edge of the city would certainly fit the bill.
The Chaletline team definitely all have our fingers crossed that the project goes ahead.