MAJOR regeneration around the John Smith’s Stadium remains a reality.

Modified plans have been submitted to Kirklees Council to amend the location of a snow slope on Kilner Bank, which forms part of the £100m HD One plans.

Minor changes have been made following feedback, which calls for an adventure golf facility, so the snow slope is to be re-positioned and needs planning approval.

The snow slope will be suitable for ski and snowboarding activities and will include a nursery slope.

Planners want to make the best use of the natural landscape of the complex.

Sir John Harman, chairman of Kirklees Stadium Development Ltd, says the revised application shows they are moving forward with major regeneration and investment in the area.

Sir John said: “This is closer to happening and evidence that we are moving forward quite rapidly with the scheme.

Ski slope at the new proposed HD One complex
Ski slope at the new proposed HD One complex

“A lot of work has been taking place behind the scenes for a number of years and this application is to slightly modify the layout.”

The latest application doesn’t mean work is about to get underway imminently, but it does show the project is on track.

The original plans were submitted in 2008 and an outline application was approved in July 2010 to re-develop the area to the south east of the stadium.

HD One will see 51 acres of land around the stadium developed into a huge complex including 147 apartments, a 144-bed hotel, an air chimney, a ski slope, a casino, 21 bars and restaurants, a surf simulator, 10-pin bowling alley, two nightclubs, a music venue, offices and a bingo hall.

It could create between 700 and 1000 jobs and is predicted to bring investment of around £100m to Huddersfield.

A application seeking planning consent for the minor changes has been submitted to Kirklees Council for consideration.

A report with it says: “The snow sports slope and centre are key components of the HD1 leisure offer, which will broaden the attractiveness of HD1, and contribute towards establishing a ‘destination’ leisure draw that is capable of attracting visitors from beyond West Yorkshire.”