New plans for Varingskollen

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Varingskollen is to be given a lift – now the plan is ready.

By: Bjørn Erik Graff, Varingskollen Alpinsenter AS

Now something big is happening at Varingskollen. After several years of work, the documents for the area plan for Varingskollen have been made public, and the chief municipal executive recommends that the plan be put out for consultation. Going out for consultation means that both residents and users now get the chance to familiarise themselves with the content and give their input before a final political decision is taken.

The plan proposal opens up for further developing Varingskollen into a modern year-round resort, and for establishing a new residential area with up to 150 homes in close proximity to the railway, Marka and existing infrastructure. A new, safe railway underpass for pedestrians and cyclists is also included – a measure that will mean a lot for safety in the area.

For those of us who run the resort, this is an absolutely necessary development. Winters are getting shorter and milder. If we're to be able to offer stable and good conditions in the future too, the slopes must be rebuilt, the terrain adjusted, snow production made more efficient and the resort modernised. It's not just about economics – it's about children, young people and adults in Nittedal and the whole region still having a ski resort in their local area that they can actually use. And we want to offer more than just skiing: biking, trails, play and activity all year round.

It's worth paying tribute to the administration in Nittedal municipality for the work that's been done. The plan is built on a solid professional foundation and thorough assessments of everything from noise and health to surface water, biodiversity and traffic safety. The process has been comprehensive and inclusive – and that's not without reason. Important considerations are being balanced here: outdoor life, nature, safety, tourism and housing needs.

We know there are differing opinions on how the area should be developed. But now there's a proposal on the table that gives a clear direction – and that gives everyone the chance to have their say before anything is decided. We're glad of that.

We at Varingskollen stand fully behind the plan now put forward, and we hope the local community does the same.

 See the future Varingskollen here:
Varingskollen2030 v05 16 9 sub