Early plans for a dedicated year-round snowsports centre in the Inverness area have been revealed.
The project would be centred around a dry ski and snowboard slope – a first for the Highland capital.
The idea is being developed by a working group of snowsports enthusiasts, including Inverness Backcountry Snowsports Club and Cairngorm Ski Club.
The proposal is at a very early stage and the group have yet to even identify a site which could be used.
Public opinion is now being sought seeking views on the proposed plans.
As well as a dry ski slope, the project could also include facilities for other activities such as mountain biking or orienteering.
A cafe could also be included.
Helen Morgan from the Inverness Snowsport Centre Working Group said: “Inverness is one of the largest population centres in Scotland that is not currently served by a dry slope facility for snowsports, yet it is
one of the closest cities to some of the main ski resorts in Scotland.
“In order to explore the opportunities more widely we are seeking members of the public – those who have an interest in snowsports, and potential snowsports enthusiasts of the future – to complete a survey at www.ibsc.org.uk.
“The results from this survey will help formulate a strategy for a possible feasibility study – the next step in bringing this much needed facility to the Highlands.”
Although a site has not been selected, the group would prefer to make it as accesible from Inverness and the wider Highlands as possible.
It would require a slope suitable for ski0ing, with space for a base station and car parking.
The group has also said it would be preferable to find a site with existing forestry to help minimise visual impact.
The survey will be live throughout February and the working group is keen to here from other clubs about what facilities they would want.
Results of the survey will be used for future planning of the project.
