New bouldering facility at Northumberland beauty spot is the first of its type in the county

Three specially constructed climbing boulders, around ten feet in height, have been installed in the park, providing fun and fitness opportunities for a range of skill levels and abilities.

There is a rubberised surface underneath alongside safety signage.

And as part of the scheme a smaller child-friendly climbing boulder has also been installed next to the current playpark.

The boulders have been paid for by Northumberland County Council, Section 106 monies (contributions developers make to local authorities to mitigate the impact of new developments) and Cllr Malcolm Robinson through his member’s small schemes fund.

The boulders will complement the range of improvements to the park’s visitor centre which are nearly complete, also supported by Cllr Robinson, which include an enlarged cafe area, modernised kitchen and improved serving area and new toilets.

Cllr John Riddle, cabinet member for environment, farming and rural, said: “Our parks and green spaces are among our most popular attractions, and this is a great new addition for this wonderful area, alongside our refurbished and improved visitor centre and toilet facilities.

“We know how important sites like Plessey Woods are for people’s health and wellbeing and we look forward to this great new feature being well used over the coming months and years.”

The climbing structures have been designed to look realistic and provide a range of different holds and routes for climbers and non-climbers of all abilities to have a go at the growing sport of ‘bouldering’.

Despite the fencing come down just days ago, a number of local groups have already pencilled in formal sessions with trained instructors.

Cllr Robinson, Bedlington West, said: “I would like to thank the county council for agreeing these proposals and devoting time and money to these upgrades.

“This bouldering project is one I’ve been keen to support through funding for some time and it’s good to see it now complete and open.

“This along with the soon to be renovated café will give more people even more reasons to visit our Park and spend time in this fantastic woodland setting.

“Once the new drainage is in and the grass re-laid alongside this it will be a very popular area within the park.”