Recent information has started to materialise about the economic viability of the new slope. The recent snowmaking problems are due to freezing up of Acer Snowmec's snow cannons. Ice has been forming under the nozzles, because the air temperature is not low enough and water from the nozzles is freezing and stopping the guns from producing snow.

The guns need a temperature of at least -10°C and snow creation will become even more difficult when people actually start using the slope. It is currently unclear whether the temperature can be reduced enough after users have left the slope to create enough snow for the next day.

There are also Health & Safety concerns about the short run-out from the slope and positioning of lift queues. Since the original design, the bar/restaurant size has been expanded into part of the run-out area.

Unlike similar, but smaller indoor slopes in mainland Europe, energy efficiency has been ignored at Xscape. The heat generated by the refrigeration equipment is pumped into the outside air, while electricity is being used to heat the gym and shopping areas. That's a bit scandelous in our opinion.

This explains the cost of using the slope. It appears it's nothing to do with market studies and all to do with making enough money just to keep snow on the slope. One source has given the the slope 18 months before it has to close. Either that or we'll see prices rocketing or reduced opening hours.

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