Snow bother for Hillend in makeover bid

HILLEND is to be given a £500,000 “makeover” after a council agreed to grant planning permission.

Midlothian Snowsports Centre in Hillend, which is already said to have the longest and “most challenging” dry slope in Europe, will be kitted out with an additional 210-metre slope, as well as 80 metres of new nursery slope.

Plans also include new snowtubing runs and improvement work to existing nursery slopes, which will be fitted with new matting.

The centre was threatened with closure last year, after Midlothian Council said it could no longer afford to fund it.

Derek Milligan, leader of Midlothian Council, said: “We know there is huge enthusiasm out there for the centre and these improvements will offer something for everyone,.

“We expect customers to be able to use the existing facilities throughout the winter.”