New climbing centre could open in town

The scheme, to convert Unit 4 on South Road Industrial Estate, has been submitted to the county council by Amble-based Sullivan Associates, on behalf of applicant Ben Brotherton.

Not only would the facility be open to members of the public to climb individually, but it would also offer ‘expert tuition’ for individuals and small groups of all ages and would offer children’s climbing parties and corporate events.

Internally, the existing workshop would be stripped out. The toilets would be refurbished, changing rooms provided and there would be climbing surfaces installed to the perimeter of the building.

A seating/chill-out area would be provided to the centre of the building with a basic offering of drinks and snacks.

There would be no cooking on the premises and users would be encouraged to use the café next door for food.

The proposed opening times of the climbing centre are Monday to Friday, 9am to 10pm, and weekends, 9am to 7pm.

It is envisaged that the facility would create three full-time equivalent positions.

A design and access statement submitted with the application says: ‘The applicant has identified that there is demand for a modern, dedicated climbing centre in Northumberland.

‘The nearest public climbing centres of a comparable size and business structure are in Newcastle to the south and Edinburgh to the north.

‘The proposed climbing centre will provide a welcome addition to the limited leisure facilities available in Alnwick and north Northumberland and therefore serve the whole of north Northumberland.’