Plan for highest zip wire at revamped ski centre

By a Daily Business reporter | January 17, 2019

High wire: users of a planned zip wire will get views across the Forth

Plans to turn a snowsports centre near Edinburgh into an all-year-round visitor attraction include creating Britain’s highest zip line and freestyle jump slope.

Also planned for the Hillend facility in Midlothian is a glamping site, an activity dome with high ropes and soft play, shops and a hotel development.

The project, if given the go-ahead by councillors, could also include an alpine coaster, a type of roller coaster with bobsled-like cars on tracks installed on a mountain.

Sports and leisure spokesman, Councillor Derek Milligan, said: “We’re very excited about the potential leisure and economic benefits an expanded year-round facility at Hillend could bring to the local area.

Investment is planned in the facility

“If given the go ahead, not only would the investment pay for itself , but it could generate additional income that would be invested back into council services such as education, health and social care. The project could also create 50 full time jobs.

“We think enhancing the current facilities with the highest zipwire in the UK, the longest Alpine coaster and the indoor climbing and soft play will attract families from all over the country and beyond.

“While the plans are just proposals currently, we are looking for feedback from local people to help shape our future planning application. Given the budget challenges we are facing, we also want to be certain of the solid business case behind these ambitious plans before giving the final go-ahead.”

A public consultation event will take place at the centre on 28 January between 2pm and 7.30 pm ahead of an application for planning permission in the spring.