The oldest chair lift in Le Grand-Bornand in the French Alps will re-launch this winter after an upcycling project whereby the old fixed-grip 2-seater chairlift has been replaced by a partly refurbished fixed-grip 4-seater.
Lift manufacturer the Poma Group has made a chairlift by recycling parts from two old ones, including the Les Gettiers chairlift that was dismantled in Le Chinaillon to make the Le Charmieux detachable chairlift in 2019.
The result has meant reduced transport requirements, working with local businesses, reusing inspected and reconditioned parts and using pre-manufactured equipment.
“It’s good for the planet with a lower carbon footprint and good for the budget,” a resort spokesperson commented.
Carrying 900-1800 skiers per hour, the new La Taverne chairlift connection with the La Joyère cable car will offer a better option as a secondary lift to the Le Rosay plateau alongside the cable car of the same name.
After dismantling the old La Taverne chairlift, locals and fans were able to buy the seats at auction. The vintage seats have since been repurposed as garden chairs and home accessories, giving them a new lease of life and bringing the unique upcycling project full circle.
Le Grand Bornand © C. Chabod-Le Grand-Bornand Tourisme
Image top © T. Vattard – Le Grand-Bornand