The Olympic Media Centre could become Britain's next and largest indoor ski centre. Acer Snowmec, the company behind the world's largest snowdome in Dubai, has placed a bid to take over the huge complex.
The current media centre will house 20,000 print and broadcast journalist during the Olympics and was intended to become a high-tech centre for new jobs. Due to a lack of interest in the property the OPLC has admitted they may have to consider other bids. A source said: "The OPLC is keen to pursue Hackney's aspirations for a creative industries hub but this venue has always been the toughest nut to crack and ultimately other ideas will need to be considered.
The building offers the same floor space as a Canary Wharf skyscraper and this has gained the attention of Acer Snowmec. The Birmingham based company are also responsible for snow centres in New Jersey and Madrid as well as the huge indoor resort in Dubai. The world famous Ski Dubai centre includes a 400m run, a 90m quarter pipe and an Alpine village. Acer Snowmec's plans would have to involve major redevelopment of the property and could face significant palling issues given its necessary height. A spokesman told Estates Gazette: "We have made a bid to the OPLC for a winter sports-anchored development."
With Milton Keynes and High Wycome a train ride away a more centrally based indoor slope in London has huge potential. If they can create a snowdome that rivals Dubai then Londoners could be in for a real treat.
Written by Troy McGuire
© Igluski