Ayrshire’s first ever indoor climbing centre opened to the public last weekend- and it's sure to give you a thrill.
Following the extensive regeneration of a Victorian church, Above Adventure is designed to cater to climbers of all skill levels and abilities.
Located in the former Grange Church in Kilmarnock, the £4.5m state-of-the-art facility has a clear focus on providing opportunities and making climbing accessible to people of all ages, genders, abilities, and backgrounds.
The new centre has a variety of climbing walls, equipment, classes and groups that are accessible.
The facility is equipped with the latest climbing gear and safety equipment, ensuring that climbers have the tools they need to climb with confidence, including a bouldering room, with low level equipment and soft landing mats and a state-of-the-art sensory room for participants with visual impairments.
Delighted to bring this investment to East Ayrshire, council Leader, Douglas Reid said: “We’ve been eagerly anticipating the opening of this incredible facility for some time now and it does not disappoint.
“The former Grange Church becoming Above Adventure is yet another local regeneration and tourism success story – not only for Kilmarnock and East Ayrshire, but Ayrshire as a whole.
"This is a first for Ayrshire in terms of the adaptive and accessible facilities on offer and I’m sure many generations of people in the area and throughout Scotland will have their lives enriched by this centre and the very special people who are bringing it to life.”
Minister for local government empowerment and planning, Joe Fitzpatrick MSP, added: “The Scottish Government has provided almost £2.5 million from the Regeneration Capital Grant Fund (RGCF) to support the repurposing of Grange Church and the opening of the exciting Above Adventure climbing facility. We welcome the ambition to make climbing accessible to people with different abilities and backgrounds.
“Since 2014, we have funded more than 210 projects, supported thousands of jobs, revived landmark buildings, and created numerous new commercial spaces and community facilities.
“Delivered in partnership with COSLA and local government, the RGCF supports local place-based projects that involve communities, helping to tackle inequalities and deliver inclusive growth across Scotland.”
A range of activities, including one-to-one sessions, introduction classes and kids clubs are available to book now at www.aboveadventure.co.uk
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