A PROJECT to develop a world-class ski and snowboard centre at Matchams is making swift progress.

The innovative development to create a new synthetic wet slope at Snowtrax in Christchurch will make the resort the European test centre for Proslope, the developers of the surface.

The new ski and snowboard park, which is due to open in mid-December, includes a permanent “kicker” at the bottom of the slope and a new ski and snowboard piste suitable for intermediate to advanced skiers and snowboarders, which is 50 metres longer than the original slope.

Currently, the underlay of the new surface is being laid before the wet slope mats, which are vastly different to the current dry surface, go down on top of it.

Consultations have taken place with freestyle experts including the team captain from Salomon’s freestyle team and Olympic team coach, Pat Sharples. The scheme is part of a £2million investment the managing directors Colin and Trevor Iseard and Barry Smith have put in over the years. Colin, who is also an instructor at the snow school, said: “Snow parks have soared in popularity over the last few years. Skiers young and old are all having a go, and for some it’s all they want to do. So, we’re thrilled to finally be opening a snow park at Snowtrax.”

The synthetic slope, which has been tested at Snowtrax, has proved to be a major breakthrough and according to Colin, it feels just like snow.

“This could spell the end of the indoor snowdome. It’s as good as snow and is much more environmentally friendly and affordable than snowdomes”, he said.

“This really is the icing on the cake of our investment.

“After the disappointment of the surf reef, we hope the surfers – many of whom snowboard and ski – will join us here for something that will be a real success.”