Adventure firm plans 'landmark' ex-ski site attraction

A leisure operator has unveiled plans to transform a derelict ski village into a “landmark” visitor attraction.

Skyline Enterprises hopes to create a Sheffield adventure hub.

The firm says the blueprint – earmarked for the city’s Parkwood Springs – would include downhill karting, a zipline and surf wave experience.

The New Zealand-based company adds the venture, which could also feature dry ski slopes, “would enhance Sheffield’s visitor appeal, stimulate the local economy and create permanent jobs”.

A planning application is expected to be submitted later this year, with public consultation set to launch in September.

Geoff McDonald, chief executive of Skyline Enterprises – whose portfolio includes attractions in New Zealand, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and South Korea – said: “Sheffield is the ideal city for our next UK development.

“We know Parkwood Springs has been a challenging site to bring forward over the years, but with strong support from Sheffield City Council and an experienced project team on board, the pieces are now in place to deliver something truly special.”

Local authority bosses say Skyline Enterprises’ investment would sit alongside wider moves to revamp the former skiing base, which include a £19 million Government grant to create a new access road, junction upgrades and site improvements aimed at supporting future visitors.

Councillor Fran Belbin, leader of Sheffield City Council, added: “Our plans to transform Parkwood Springs into a vibrant and thriving area of the city are continuing to move forward.

“Skyline’s plans for the old ski village site remain a focal point of the work we are doing.

“The site has had many false starts over the years, but I am delighted to see the latest proposed details for their facility.”

Skyline Enterprises has appointed leisure development firm Omisa as project management partner, alongside Willis Hazell Engineers, Patersons and Griffith Evans.

Bosses add multiple Sheffield-based firms are also poised to support the scheme, including architecture and engineering company Hadfield Cawkwell Davidson, landscape architect Ares, environmental company Weddles, planning consultancy Urbana and communications operator Counter Context.

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