PHOTO: 9NEWS
Australia’s inaugural indoor ski resort has received approval from the state planning department, paving the way for Sydney to host a perpetual snow field. Winter Sports World (WSW) announced on Thursday that the Penrith location had secured official endorsement from the NSW Department of Planning and Environment.
Dubbed “The Giant Esky,” the project will span over two hectares, featuring a 300m ski run, a 4.5-star, 170-room hotel, dining establishments, thermal pools, ice climbing facilities, and a designated snow play area. Envisioned as a magnet for elite snow athletes globally, the facility will provide Olympic-grade training facilities for alpine skiing, freestyle skiing, and snowboarding.
An artist’s impression of the completed building. Picture: Winter Sports World
The project was green lit by the NSW Department of Planning and Environment on Thursday. Picture: Winter Sports World
Anticipated to infuse more than $220 million annually into the Western Sydney economy and generate approximately 2,700 construction and ongoing jobs, the project marks a significant milestone. Developer Peter Magnisalis, who initiated the State Significant Development Application (SSDA) in June 2018, expressed relief at the official approval, declaring that Winter Sports World is now a tangible endeavor rather than a mere aspiration.
The project will include a 300m ski run and a 170-room hotel. Picture: Winter Sports World
Some of the hotel rooms will even have views of the snow field. Picture: Winter Sports World
Expected to enhance accessibility by offering affordable admission, the project remains in a preparatory stage, necessitating detailed design, engineering development, and an international search for suppliers and contractors, including construction firms, snowmaking and lift specialists, restaurant and hotel operators, as well as artists and designers.
Mr. Magnisalis emphasized the importance of meticulous preparation, stating, “So we need to take the time in this crucial preparation stage to ensure we get the project right before it can start to rise above the ground.” He also underscored the global scope of the venture, aspiring for WSW to boast the world’s highest quality indoor snow resort.