Where do you go if the ski centre is closed? Partick!
AN indoor ski centre near Glasgow was forced to close yesterday due to the Arctic conditions that have crippled the central belt and parts of the UK.
But the closure of Intu Soar and its Snow Factor centre did not put off thrill-seekers, who made the most of the white stuff on the city’s streets, slopes and parks.
One skier whizzed down Gardner Street in Partick and another ventured out on his skis along Alexandra Parade, while dozens of snowboarders took the city’s West End to test their equipment on the hills.
And Glasgow University’s canoe club got creative by using their equipment as impromptu sledges for some fun in the snow.
Bellahouston’s Ski and Snowboard Centre remained open throughout the unrelenting weather and staff admitted they were “mobbed” with south-side residents keen to make the most of the weather but added that everyone was “having a ball”.
However, for ski and snowboard enthusiasts keen to enjoy the outdoor snow closer to home, AndrewBinnie, Slope Manager at Snow Factor Braehead, had some advice and encouraged adrenaline junkies to remember their safety.
He said: “Have fun but be safe.
“Don’t ski on public roads and if using areas where there are pedestrians, follow the mountain code and respect those around you.”
But the blizzard conditions did force the closure of Snow Factor Braehead, with treacherous driving conditions prov- ing too hazardous for staff.
Jamie Smith, owner of Ice Factor Group which includes Snow Factor Braehead, said: “It’s ironic that due to heavy snowfalls we have been forced to temporarily close our doors.
“However, the safety of our customers and staff is always the priority and in light of severe weather and road conditions we took the decision to close on Wednesday afternoon.
“We remained closed [yesterday] and are constantly monitoring the situation.
“As soon as road and weather conditions permit,we will reopen to welcome back our customers to Scotland’s only indoor real snow facility.
“We strongly recommend that our customers continue to check our Facebook, Twitter and website for updates on reopening.”
The entire intu Soar centre, along with neighbouring intu Braehead and the arena have also been closed.
Christine Macdonald, intu Braehead’s marketing manager, said: “We can confirm that all our stores and restaurants are closed today due to severe weather conditions and therefore intu Braehead, Soar and Braehead Arena remained closed [yesterday].
“The safety of our customers and staff will always remain our top priority.
“For updates, please check our social media channels and website.”
It is not yet known if the Braehead Clan match against Sheffield Steelers will be able to take place tomorrow. Ticket holders are asked to keep an eye on social media.