THE search has begun to find an investor to save Ski Rossendale.

This month the borough council’s cabinet members will discuss proposals to explore the level of interest from private sector backers who may be willing to invest in the ski slope.

Since the opening of the new ski facility at the Trafford Centre profits at the ski slope have plummeted.

It is estimated that Ski Ross-endale will require up to £10m to give it a long term, sustainable future, or face the prospect of closure.

Coun Jason Gledhill, Rossendale council’s leisure portfolio holder, said: “Ski Rossendale is a unique facility in the borough and we want it to have a long-term future, providing fun and enjoyment for future generations.

“However, the 30-year-old ski slope is not achieving its full potential and needs significant investment if it is to return to being a major regional attr-action.”

As part of the process of identifying a potential investor, the council is now planning to establish a ski slope user group to provide feedback on various proposals.

A leisure review was launched earlier this year after facilities including Marl Pits Swimming Pool, Haslingden Sports Centre, Bacup Leisure Hall and Haslingden Swimming Pool all reported significant financial losses.

Coun Gledhill added: “The council’s resources can not meet the level of investment required but we believe that a public and private sector partnership may be able to successfully revamp the slope.

“We want a ski slope that will attract more visitors to the area and thus boost our local visitor economy.”

The council has reported it has already had interest in the ski slope from private sector investors who want to revamp of the facility.