Ski Rossendale

Overview:

Ski Rossendale, a dry ski slope which first opened in Rawtenstall in 1972, closed in March 2011 after Rossendale Borough Council were no longer able to provide funding for the slope as the authority struggled to find £3 million of savings in 2011/2012.  The 40-year-old site was in desperate need of repair and was said to cost £100,000 a year to maintain.

Members of the community and keen supporters of the Ski Rossendale club did not wish to see the site remain closed. Ski Rossendale Ltd was formed as a social enterprise by Dave Fuller, Karon Driver and Sue and Steve Foulkes with the intention of acquiring the lease to run and develop Ski Rossendale. They believed in the business model and its potential to generate revenue.

A number of town meetings were held over the summer, and a significant number of the local community came forward to pledge their support, via donations and voluntary work to help clean up the site, and carry out some of the much needed repairs.

Regenerate’s Role:

Regenerate was approached by Ski Rossendale Ltd after Rossendale Borough Council recommended that they access advice regarding establishing a social enterprise. Regenerate was able to provide social enterprise expertise and helped Dave et al create a business plan. It was also essential to review the financial forecasts to ensure that it was a viable and sustainable proposition. Investment was a significant consideration as essential works on the site needed to be carried out before it could re-open.

Regenerate were able to provide grant support assistance to the new enterprise of £5,000. The grant was utilised towards computers, a photocopier and the installation of a new network. The funding also covered the cost of new marketing materials. It was essential to promote the re-opening, as many local residents believed the site to still be closed.

Impact:

• 10 Job created (including on-site café sublet)
• £15,000 Private Sector Investment
• Predicted a further £300,000 private sector investment by 2014

Ski Rossendale continues to receive support from Regenerate. The social enterprise has a number of physical development plans for the site. Regenerate is providing support with accessing finance, the company needs to raise an additional £40,000 investment into a brand new “tubing” run which will generate income for the site and is expected to turn a profit within 3 years.

The centre is also welcoming back schools and is developing facilities for children with special needs. Ski Rossendale also hope to develop an onsite physiotherapy centre, and a ski gear retail outlet, both of which will create additional jobs. Ski Rossendale are currently exploring obtaining charity status.

Continued Support:

Regenerate has provided information regarding funding opportunities and will continue to support the centre over the coming years.