Bouldering Wall Officially Opened
Prudhoe Waterworld unveiled a new addition to their range of fitness facilities on 21st March with the opening of a new indoor Bouldering Wall. Funded by centre managers North Country Leisure and an additional £10,000 from Northumberland County Council's members' small schemes fund, the project was completed in less than four weeks, converting a temporarily redundant space in the corner of the pool area.
North Country Leisure staff and board members, Northumberland County Council representatives and contractors involved in the build, attended the official opening recently. Children from Prudhoe Castle First School were also invited to try out their climbing skills during the morning.
Open just 2 months, the wall has already brought an influx of both experienced and amateur climbers to the centre, with over 300 people taking up the challenge. Built in conjunction with professional climber Andy Long, with advice from Climb Newcastle, the wall is suitable for anyone over 5 years of age. A wide choice of routes are available for different abilities, and no ropes or harnesses are required as soft, safety matting is in place to cushion any slip ups you might make.
"We have been really pleased with the reaction from customers to the new facility and the usage we have experienced so far." said centre manager Richard Anderson. "It has been great to see people of all ages taking to the wall and challenging themselves to try new routes each time they visit.
We are looking forward to half term and the summer holidays when we hope to see lots more children and families getting active in the centre."
The official opening was completed by Cllr Bill Garrett who played a fundamental role in securing funding for the project from the small scheme fund.
"I was delighted to be of assistance in getting the scheme up and running; it is a tremendous addition to the facilities already on offer at Waterworld" said Cllr Garrett.
"I know several people who have to travel outside the area to experience similar climbing facilities and we now have our very own bouldering wall on offer, in the heart of the town. North Country Leisure has a long record of engaging with community groups, particularly younger people and this project is another example of responding to community needs."
The bouldering wall is open daily for general climbing and after school and 'Rock Stars' sessions for juniors take place throughout the week, with bouldering birthday parties available this summer.
