Plymouth climbing wall remains open amid calls for increased usage
Community input halts changes as council commits to improving facilities
Plans to convert the climbing wall at Plymouth Life Centre into a children's soft play area have been scrapped following public feedback and intervention by local leaders.
Plymouth City Council and Plymouth Active Leisure have confirmed the decision after residents voiced concerns about losing the facility.
Hundreds of people participated in the consultation, leading to the halt of the proposed closure of Plymouth Active Climbing.
Councillor Kate Taylor, Cabinet Member for Finance and Sport, stated: “We have heard the strength of feeling from our residents loud and clear. Hundreds of people have taken the time to share their views in our consultation, and we thank everyone who got involved.”
She assured that the council and Plymouth Active Leisure would seek alternative plans to enhance the facilities at the Life Centre.
While the organisation aims for financial viability, the climbing wall operates at a loss of £100k annually, with only 208 regular members last year alongside approximately 500 sporadic users.
Cllr Taylor urged residents to increase usage of these facilities to ensure their sustainability and continued availability.
Plymouth Active has shown commitment to developing residents' facilities since 2022, opening new spaces and investing in digital and customer services.
Annual facility usage is growing, contributing over £9.5 million in social value last year.
With a strategic plan in place, Plymouth Active is ready to pursue its long-term goals for the community.