The Pleasant Point Climbing Group is aiming high to establish a new facility in the town.
The group has gained approval from the Timaru District Council and the Pleasant Point gym committee to build a climbing wall in the Pleasant Point Gymnasium, and is now seeking support to raise about $100,000 for the project.
Spokeswoman Kelly Cooney said that during summer, club members met regularly at Spur Rd and Mount Horrible crags to climb.
‘‘During the winter it gets a bit limiting as to where we can climb, with the closest indoor climbing wall with public access being in Waimate.’’
Ms Cooney said the climbing wall would be a great asset not only to the Pleasant Point community, but to outlying areas as well, and would provide options for toddlers right through to adults.
‘‘The wall would be a fantastic asset for generations to come; the Point primary schools would have regular access, being right on their doorstep, along with regular climbing nights for both young and old.
‘‘Schools from Temuka, Cave and Fairlie have also shown interest in the wall. ‘‘Principals have been really positive about it and are hoping it comes to fruition. They’re saying it would be great in winter, because they’d be able to bring a class here.’’
With limited activities for teenagers in the area, it would also be a great activity for them to engage in, connect with others and be challenged.
Ms Cooney said the club would want to use Christchurch-based firm Uprising to construct the wall, as the people involved had more than 30 years’ experience in the industry.
The build for the wall would be done in two stages.
The wall would be built first and stage two would involve adding the climbing holds, ropes, mats and accessories.
The wall would have four top ropes, creating four climb zones and a bouldering wall as well.
Pleasant Point Community Board chairwoman Raewyn Hessell said she had talked with the group about the project, and would take it back to the commnity board to see what support the board could offer.
The club is in the initial stages of gaining funding, and is awaiting decision on several funding applications, but is also keen to hear from individuals and local businesses that might be interested in learning more or supporting the project.
