The under-used and aging 'Leisure Park' in Basingstoke is finally being redeveloped, and I believe that the perfect attraction to be constructed here would be an indoor snow dome.

Basingstoke council have shown some interest in this idea also, but it's gone very quiet and council meetings on the subject seem unambitious and indecisive.

Snow sports are not going away. They are not a fad that is going to pass. Millions of people go on skiing or snowboarding holidays every year, plenty of those from the UK, and they all need somewhere to practice - this is where snow domes come in, and they are becoming more and more popular.

We (finally) won our first Olympic medal on snow this year! We can win many more in the future, but only if we can provide the right facilities for people to improve on.

I believe that a snow dome this side of London (the nearest indoor slope is in Hemel Hempstead) would draw in huge amounts of people from all over the South, and give Basingstoke something to be proud of - something to put us on the map!

Snow domes are fantastic places to learn skiing or snowboarding, they can be great for special occasions & family days out, as well as catering to enthusiasts.

The Snow Centre in Hemel Hempstead has been a great success, they organise seasonal events, have a comfy restaurant overlooking the slope, and draw people from all over the country. We can do the same - in fact, we can do better!

If we show enough support for this idea, and can gain enough interest, then we could be the catalyst needed to create something amazing for our town.

I dread to think of what other options are on the table for the development of this area of town (indoor caving anyone...?) - so if you agree that a snow dome in Basingstoke would be great for everyone here, please add your name to this petition and share it with your friends and family.

I truly believe that this could be a hugely positive thing for our town - thanks for your support!