We are excited to update you on our progress regarding the Community Asset Transfer (CAT) of the Polmonthill Snowsports Centre.
Our Journey So Far
Our Trustees have been actively engaged in the CAT process, aligning our efforts with the requirements set forth by Falkirk Council. This process is crucial as it ensures transparency, community involvement, and a structured approach to asset transfer.
Support and Application Status
Support from the community has been overwhelming. We are almost in a position to submit our full Community Asset Transfer application and business case, and it is currently under review by CVS, a third party employed by Falkirk Council to assist those interested in the transfer of council assets. Our application highlights the anticipated benefits for our community, such as improved facilities, enhanced community engagement, and sustainable management of the centre. With the support of our community, our first job at the centre will be to turn a profit with the facilities and equipment as they are. When we are sure this is possible, we will seek funding to invest in the facility, and have plans to create a world class venue to train our talented skiers giving them the right opportunities.
Next Steps
CAT Application: Our application is being evaluated, and we expect some alterations to be recommended. Following this, the application and business case will be submitted to Falkirk Council for their decision.
Deadline date: The council have informed our Trustees that they intend to close the centre by the 1st October. However, if our application has not been approved by then, the Council have offered the Charity the option to take on the running of the centre on a month by month Full Repair and Insure (FRI) lease prior to a decision being made by Falkirk Council to grant the CAT to the Charity. This FRI will likely start sometime before the 1st October once there is a clear path toward turning the Centre to profit.
Finalising Details: Our Trustees continue to meet with the Council regarding staff and the facility in general. It's been some time since the centre has had any sort of investment other than patch and repair, and we're seeking financial assistance in the business case to improve the facility and bring to a decent standard.
Community Involvement: We continue to seek and document community support. This support is vital in demonstrating the community's vested interest in the project. Watch out for pop up stands at the centre where we would like to video customers experiences and opinion on the need for the slope. We are also seeking suggestions on fundraising and events at the centre.
Sponsorship: We aim to create mutually beneficial partnerships through sponsorship opportunities that support the development and sustainability of Polmonthill Snowsports Centre. These packages will be designed to provide maximum exposure and value to sponsors while enhancing the facilities and services offered to the community.
Implementation: Post-transfer, our focus will first be to turn a profit by altering opening times to suit our customers needs, and then shift to implementing our project plan, which includes maintenance, operational management, and community activities to ensure the dry ski slope is utilised to its full potential.
Call to Action
We encourage all stakeholders to remain engaged and supportive. Your participation and feedback are very much appreciated as they are invaluable as we work towards a successful transfer and subsequent management of the dry ski slope.