Other Sport / Climbing
Climbing Academy to sell both of their Bristol sites
A climbing centre business that began in Bristol is selling its two sites in the city.
The Climbing Academy currently own both the Mothership in Barton Hill and the Church in St Werburgh’s but will be selling both due to what they describe as “a perfect storm of challenges”.
“After 17 years of climbing, community and memories, we’re incredibly sad to share that we are preparing to part ways with The Mothership and The Church,” the Climbing Academy team said in an email to members.
is needed now More than ever
Following the success of their first bouldering centre on Barrow Road in Barton Hill in 2008, the Climbing Academy have opened two centres in Glasgow and one in Chippenham, as well as the Church within the historic St Werburgh’s Church on Mina Road (whose original location was on Corn Street).
They are expecting to sell their Bristol locations by the end of September to Flashpoint, a group who own sites across the UK including Redpoint in Bedminster, and Flashpoint and Freedog near Temple Meads.
The Climbing Academy’s email said: “Despite operating successful centres, this decision comes in the wake of a perfect storm of challenges.
“The UK climbing market has remained relatively flat, while inflation has driven up the cost of running and maintaining our centres.
“At the same time, significant new competition is opening in both Glasgow and Bristol – coinciding with the period in which we’re still absorbing the costs of our major redevelopment.
“Together, these pressures have made it too difficult for us to continue operating our Bristol centres.”
The Church is located within the former St Werburgh’s Church on Mina Road – photo: The Climbing Academy
The Climbing Academy’s current staff in Bristol look likely to be taken on by Flashpoint, who the Climbing Academy say will “create an unrivalled offering for climbers in the city” as well as “preserving the setting style and distinct centre cultures that already exist at TCA”.
Their email to members added: “TCA started in Bristol and it will always be part of our DNA.
“Thank you to everyone who climbed with us, grew with us and helped shape what we built – including many who have been with us from week one.
“We know this will come as a huge shock which will take all of us some time to process…
“You’ve all made this place what it is and while we’re gutted to be stepping away, we’re so grateful for everything this chapter has meant.”
The Mothership in Barton Hill was the Climbing Academy’s first bouldering centre to open in 2008 – photo: The Climbing Academy
Main photo: The Climbing Academy
Read next:
Our newsletters emailed directly to you
