Head for the hills to enjoy new funslope at Hillend

The slope is the first attraction to open as part of the council’s Destination Hillend project to develop the snowsports centre into a multi-activity leisure facility.

Scottish and GB Park and Pipe riders, including former Olympian Murray Buchan and Harris Booth, were given a sneak preview of the funslope at Hillend earlier this year.

Murray said with three different types of pitches, jumps and other features, the slope would appeal to everyone from elite athletes to beginners.

Freestyle skiers including Olympian Murray Buchan try out Destination Hillend's new funslope.

He added: “There’s nothing in Scotland at this level.”

Meanwhile Harris, who first got the skiing bug on a family holiday and then begged his dad to bring him to Hillend which he could see from his bedroom window, added the slope was great for some “decent tricks”.

Council Leader Councillor Derek Milligan (Lab) said: “It’s been fantastic to get such positive feedback from Harris and the other freestyle skiers but it’s even better that we can now invite the public to come along and enjoy this amazing facility.

“This is really going to put the snowsports centre on the map but please remember to check with the existing coronavirus travel restrictions to make sure you can travel safely while keeping safe.”

Freestyle skiers including Olympian Murray Buchan try out Destination Hillend's new funslope.

Snowsport design firm Briton Engineering delivered the 130-metre funslope. The firm has extensive expertise, with clients across the world and ongoing projects as far afield as China.

Snowsport Scotland chief executive Trafford Wilson said: “Snowsport Scotland is extremely excited about the new funslope at Hillend.

“As a sport we have a very strong Park and Pipe performance history and see this new facility playing a critical role in supporting our best athletes to continue to perform on the world stage and in bringing through the next generation of athletes to follow in their footsteps.”

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As well as the funslope, Destination Hillend may include, subject to any necessary planning consents and other agreements and permissions, the following attractions: The highest Zipline in the UK, the longest Alpine coaster in the UK, a new reception building for the Snowsports Centre, a food court and function space, associated retail space, glamping tourist accommodation, activity area with high ropes and soft play

Hotel development opportunity.

A a video of Scottish and GB Park and Pipe riders trying out the slope earlier this year is available above.