The Gloucester Ski and Snowboard Centre, renowned as the place where Olympic ski jumper Eddie ‘the Eagle’ Edwards first learned to ski, is facing an uncertain future as it seeks a new owner. The current proprietor has put the centre up for sale, citing the need for fresh investment and facility upgrades.
Cameron Singer, the manager, acknowledges the scale of the work required to enhance the centre but remains optimistic due to significant interest from potential buyers. “We’re realistic – the site needs some maintenance and modernization to brighten it up,” he told ITV West. “That said, all the essential infrastructure is in place, including the lifts and matting. We just want to develop it further to make the venue more impressive for visitors.”
Opened originally in 1973 with a major upgrade around 15 years ago, the centre features a 255-metre main slope, a Freestyle slope with Snowflex Fun Park, a 40-metre nursery slope, tubing runs, and button tow lifts. It also offers skiing and snowboarding lessons, group coaching, as well as recreational snow activities like tubing and outdoor laser tag.
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Beyond the slopes, the facility includes a fully licensed café/bar named after its most famous former student, Eddie ‘the Eagle’ Edwards, a ski rental service, a ski servicing workshop, and a My Race shop. Edwards, who began skiing here at age 13 and went on to compete at the 1988 Winter Olympics, expressed excitement about the centre’s future. “When I was a teenager, the atmosphere was electric every night. Bringing that spirit back will be challenging but very rewarding. I hope someone comes forward to invest and transform it into a premier dry ski slope.”
The Gloucester Ski and Snowboard Centre attracts over 50,000 visitors annually. Operating in Matson since 2012, it remains a beloved local facility with a rich history. The asking price for the sale is £625,000, leaving hopes high that new ownership will breathe new life into this historic sporting venue.