BUILDERS have moved on site as the new phase of an outdoor ski centre's redevelopment plans get underway.

The latest work will see Rawtenstall-based Ski Rossendale's existing reception, toilet and ski hire demolished.

It will be replaced with a ski centre building which will provide an improved 35-seat café/bistro and elevated outdoor viewing area with further seating available.

The new plans are part of an overall £630,000 project funded by Sport England which is being delivered in partnership with Rossendale Council.

This includes enhanced skiing facilities along with the new ski centre building.

The redevelopment began in 2016 with the upgrade of the centre’s beginner and improver slopes which now boasts the latest synthetic surface that more closely resembles snow.

Future planned phases, subject to funding bids, include upgrades to the main slope and ski lifts.

The centre will remain open as usual during the works with special offers available for its customers throughout the summer period.

Dave Fuller, director of Ski Rossendale, said: "On behalf of all the team at Ski Rossendale, I can truly say we are delighted to have brought this opportunity to the ski centre and the new facilities will give our customers a much-improved experience.

"This is a great step forward in our re development plans for Ski Rossendale and I am delighted we have been able to bring this new investment to Ski Rossendale and the valley as a whole."

Cllr Alyson Barnes, leader of Rossendale Council, said: "As partners of Ski Rossendale I’m delighted that the plans that we have worked on have come to fruition and are now underway.

"Ski Rossendale is an iconic Rossendale facility that attracts 30,000 visitors every year into the borough bringing with them revenue and helping to create jobs.

"This project will also further enhance Rossendale’s reputation as ‘Adrenaline Valley’, where families, groups and thrill seekers can come to try something new, learn new skills or just have fun."