A £300 million indoor ski resort, set to feature the UK's longest indoor ski run, has been approved for construction in Merthyr Tydfil, Wales. The resort will include a 400-metre slope, three hotels, 30 woodland lodges, and a water park, creating up to 800 jobs in an area historically affected by mass unemployment.
The 575-acre site, located south of the Brecon Beacons National Park and less than three hours' drive from London and Birmingham, aims to become the UK Centre of Snowsport Excellence. The slope will be approved by the Federation of International Skiing, allowing international competitions to be held there.
Chief operating officer Richard Arnold stated that the plans were submitted in January after a legal review showed no major issues. He noted collaboration with Snowsports Wales and support from Team GB, which plans to use the facility for summer training. The resort is expected to take two and a half years to complete once approved by the Welsh Government.
The development comes as climate change impacts traditional ski resorts in the Alps, with unseasonably hot weather affecting the industry. Arnold expressed hope that the resort would encourage longer stays and boost local businesses.
