Steady Brook, Newfoundland – After years of instability, the provincial government has decided to sell a dilapidated ski resort.
According to CBC, the provincial government of Newfoundland and Labrador is currently seeking expressions of interest (EOI) to purchase or operate the Marble Mountain ski resort.
The document states that “The province is interested in engaging with potential proponents who may be interested in presenting a sustainable business model and are willing to invest in the resort, including maintaining/improving the ski facilities to maintain the benefits to the western region of Newfoundland and Labrador.”
The ski area has a respectable vertical drop of 1700 feet and 230 skiable acres. It receives a respectable amount of snow, with nearly 200 inches of powder per year. Marble Mountain also has a stunning base lodge and several lodging options adjacent to the mountain.
There is a little activity here in the off-season, with scenic chairlift rides that have an observation deck at the summit. A private operator runs a zip line tour and a ropes course at the ski resort. Cruise ships that come to Corner Brook in the summer and fall keep a decent number of visitors.
However, Marble Mountain also has its problems. The outdated infrastructure needs extensive renovation.
In 2018, the provincial government issued an expression of interest (EOI) to privatize Marble Mountain. There were three bidders, but none met the government’s requirements. In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic changed parts of the proposals for the mountain, so the provincial government temporarily took it off the market. The provincial government invests significant sums in the ski area each year, this year investing $1.306 million CAD in the mountain.
Additionally, like much of Eastern Canada’s ski area, the weather is sometimes unpredictable. Last winter, Marble Mountain experienced heavy rains that caused landslides at the snow-covered base. However, Marble recovered and reopened in March.
The provincial government believes that private investment is needed for the mountain to be successful, and if you are interested in submitting a bid, you have until September 13.
Photo credits: Marble Mountain Ski Resort
