A SPORT centre in the area has announced that it will close at the end of November.

Warehouse Climbing Centre in Gloucester is shutting down after three decades of trading, with one of its owners saying there is ‘little space to grow the business or develop the facilities’.

In a release, the Parliament Street facility said that it has seen hundreds of thousands of people scale its walls while it has been in operation.

It added that the indoor climbing industry has changed dramatically since the centre opened.

When Warehouse Climbing Centre opened, it was only the fifth dedicated climbing centre in the UK, the release said, whereas today, there are well over 100.

The release also noted that climbing has seen a big growth in popularity in recent years, mostly recently aided by Team GB’s success at the Paris Olympics.

“So many people from Gloucestershire and further afield have fond memories of climbing at the Warehouse,” Robert Stevens, one of Warehouse Climbing Centre’s owners, said.

“We are incredibly proud of our heritage and all that’s been accomplished over the last 30 years.

“It’s been pretty special.

“But with little space to grow the business or develop the facilities, the time has come to move on.”

The good news for climbers in the area is the second phase of a £7 million project is due to open at 270 Climbing in Bentham on December 6.

Robert, director at 270 Climbing, said: “The new bouldering gym is over five times the footprint of the Warehouse.

“Visitors will be able to enjoy a range of dynamic walls up to 4.5m high, including over 1,000m² of indoor and outdoor surfaces.

“Alongside this, the centre is also home to our dedicated Fun Walls climbing area.

“This brand-new attraction for the region features a series of crazy and colourful climbing challenges for children and beginners.

“Away from the action, we also have our large, welcoming cafe bar, so we’ll offer something for everyone.”

Robert added: “Our aim is to offer a range of aerial activities at the park. “Phase one back in 2023 saw the installation of our high ropes course, which is one of the biggest in Europe.

“Phase two sees the opening of the Bouldering and Fun Walls in December.

“Phase three, set for spring 2025, will see the opening of our 17m Climbing Gym.

“This all means 270 will provide one of the most comprehensive climbing facilities in the country.

“We look forward to welcoming a new generation of climbers and helping to create many more memorable experiences.”