Scottish Businessman Buys Glencoe; Due To Open January

Scotland's Glencoe ski area will open this winter season after a last-minute buyer entered the scene.

Scottish businessman Andy Meldrum bought the resort from David Campbell who owned it for five years. When talking to the Daily Mail, Mr. Meldrum described himself as a "snow nut" and said that he plans to make Glencoe a year-round attraction. However he admitted he had an uphill task ahead of him.

The Glencoe ski centre (305-1108m) has endured tough times in recent years with poor snowfall six years ago leading to its worst season on record.

Glencoe's future was unclear after it failed to attract investors when it was put on the market in March 2009. An online petition in favour of keeping the resort open gathered 3000 signatures.

Essential maintenance work started Nov. 2 in preparation for the start of the ski season in January. The improvements feature added snowmaking machines and the re-opening of Glencoe's café with a revamped menu.

Glencoe's 20 kilometres of pistes are suitable for all levels and served by seven lifts. The 19 runs are divided into four green, six blue, seven red, and two black. The lifts can transport up to 4300 skiers per hour.

Skiers and snowboarders will also find off-piste skiing, ski schools, equipment hire shops, and mountain huts serving hot food and beverages.

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