Stevenage shown the high ropes

A new climbing park, the only one of its kind in Europe, was shown off today ahead of its public opening next month.

The So Challenging Rope Course in Fairlands Valley, Stevenage is nearing completion after four months of work, and dignitaries and those involved in the project gathered to watch climbers show them the ropes.

The structure has a 25m zip wire, 13m climbing wall, high beam and bridge walk, ‘leap of faith’ pole and ‘Jacob’s ladder’ climb, as well as a smaller tyre and rope climbing facility beside it.

The �126,000 facility, funded by a government performance reward grant, is especially aimed at schoolchildren and the disabled, but will also be available to the wider community including for hire to businesses for team building exercises.

John Gardner Deputy, leader of Stevenage Borough Council which worked in partnership with Stevenage Leisure Ltd on the project, said it opened up “an entirely new avenue for Stevenage and the North Herts area”.

Park manager Gavin Davis said it ticks many boxes.

“It will provide fun, fitness, adventure, team building and confidence for adults as well as children. By working together you get to know one another,” he said.

The facility will be protected at night by CCTV and infrared beams that trigger an alarm, as well as by removal of lower access to the structure.