An aerial view of how the Jeongseon Alpine Centre should appear during the Paralympic Games ©Pyeongchang 2018

All Alpine skiing and snowboard events will be held at the Jeongseon resort during the Pyeongchang 2018 Paralympic Games after the scrapping of the Yongpyong centre.

Under original proposals, downhill, super-G and super combined events were due to take place at Jeongseon while the more technically-minded giant slalom, slalom and snowboard competitions would be held at Yongpyong.

The idea of consolidating the competitions was originally discussed at the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) Alpine Skiing Asian Cup held at Yongpyong in March, a statement today explained.

Discussions have since "moved into feasibility studies, planning and logistics so that the test events can also be held at this venue".

It is now hoped that spectators will be able to enjoy more events in one place, creating a "rousing atmosphere for everyone involved".

The move should also ensure easier access and a safer slope width for Alpine skiers and provides separate courses for the events.

This "eliminates the need" to convert the snowboard track to a slalom slope during the Games.

Technical events are still due to be held at Yongpyong during February's Olympic Games, however.

An image of the Jeongseon Alpine Centre taken before the winter season truly started in November 2016 ©Pyeongchang 2018
An image of the Jeongseon Alpine Centre taken before the winter season truly started in November 2016 ©Pyeongchang 2018

"We expect that this consolidation of events will bring about efficient Games preparation and operations at both the test events next year and the Paralympic Winter Games in 2018, as well as substantial savings," said Pyeongchang 2018 secretary general, Yeo Hyung-koo.

The 2017 IPC Snowboard World Cup Finals are now due to take place at the resort from March 10 to 13 while a 2017 IPC Alpine Skiing World Cup will be held there from March 11 to 18.

"Considerable" yet unspecified cost savings have been hailed as a result of the move.

This comes as South Korean organisers still face delays confirming a 2017 budget which was due to be finalised in October or November.

It is claimed that the number of staff needed will be reduced from 682 to 332 while overlay construction costs will also be reduced.

"This is a good move for everyone, especially spectators, allowing people to come and enjoy two of the most exciting Paralympic sports on the programme in a single venue," added IPC chief executive Xavier Gonzalez.

"The test events in March will enable us to see well in advance what is working well and to make any necessary improvements. 

"We look forward to continue working with Pyeongchang 2018 to make the 2018 Paralympic Winter Games a success."