FIRST LOOK: Early vision for Sheffield ski village redevelopment

The authority commissioned landscape and urban design firm Gillespies to look into the possibility of turning the derelict winter sports slopes into a new outdoor and adventure centre.

Six “credible” potential bidders have approached so far approached the council about redeveloping the site. Edward Highfield, director of Creative Sheffield, said no formal bids had yet been lodged, but he was confident the interest would result in a formal application.

As part of the feasibility study, Gillespies came up with a possible masterplan for the site at Parkwood Springs.

The design, which the council is now using to attract investors, brings a range of downhill sports together in a centre focusing on both recreation and competition. It links Parkwood Springs to the city centre, via Kelham Island.

Associate at Gillespies Tim Buykx said: “Sheffield is a city renowned for its active lifestyle and outdoor adventure sports – climbing, running, biking and hiking.

“The Parkwood Springs development provides a great opportunity to capture people’s enthusiasm for adventure sports and deliver a downhill adrenaline sports destination close to the city centre.

“The design concept envisions a range of downhill sports forming the heart of a recreation training and competition facility, which will provide the north of England with an unrivalled city-based adventure sports park.”

The early proposals drawn up by Gillespies include new mountain bike trails and a dual slalom, which the firm believes could attract about 10,000 visitors a year - but the council believes there is potential for much more.

Working with Gillespies, the authority is trying to attract developers to turn the ski village site into a ‘nationally-significant attraction’, in line with Sheffield’s branding as ‘The Outdoor City’.

Gillespies has also worked on a number of other recreation sites for the council.

The deadline for expressions of interest in the ski village site is midday on April 7.

The council will then invite a preferred bidder to purchase a long lease with the intention of developing, financing and operating the site.

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