Midlothian Council has unanimously approved plans for a £500,000 overhaul of Midlothian Snowsports Centre at Hillend, near Edinburgh, in a bid to safeguard the venue's future.

An additional 210m (689ft) slope on the hill will be among the proposed improvements to be carried out at the facility, which is owned and operated by the local authority.

Other upgrade work will include 80m (262ft) of new nursery slope; an extension and revamp of the existing nursery slopes; new snowtubing runs; and two new travellator uplift systems.

The scheme will be funded by sportscotland, with plans drawn up alongside a team of expert designers to improve the skiing experience for both beginners and regular users.

Midlothian Council leader Derek Milligan said: "We know there is huge enthusiasm out there for the centre and these improvements will offer something for everyone."