Plans for climbing wall leisure site in city

Plans have been put forward to turn the upper deck of a retail site into a "theme park meets climbing wall" attraction.

Gloucester Quays LLP has sought permission from the city council to change the use of the empty area which is currently designated for outlet retailing.

The likely operator of the space would be Clip 'n Climb UK, who would provide climbing and soft play facilities along with a café.

Planning consultants said the proposal would bring "wider economic benefits by encouraging longer stays within the city centre and increasing footfall".

Plans lodged with Gloucester City Council said the development would use all 1,256 sqm of accommodation on the upper deck.

Consultants said the proposal will not lead to additional floorspace being created within the outlet, but introduced an additional leisure use to Gloucester Quays reflecting the spirit of the original planning permission, which included leisure uses.

At the same time, it is not proposed to "give up" any of the permitted factory outlet shopping floorspace which will remain as up to 20,000 sqm.

"The proposal will bring an underutilised space within the city centre into economic use and will contribute positively to the levels of economic activity in the area," planning consultants said.

"A leisure climbing facility with ancillary facilities, such as a café, will create a number of jobs, with employees generally being sought from the local area.

"As such, the proposal will make a meaningful contribution to the employment opportunities within Gloucester."

In order to improve accessibility to the upper deck, several alterations not requiring planning permission have already been made, including the installation of two escalators.

"Clip 'n Climb UK provide fun challenges for children, families, parties and corporate events at various locations across the country", the planning documents submitted to the council said.

"Its 'theme park meets climbing wall' concept has been thrilling and challenging people of all ages for almost 20 years, creating a new sector in the leisure industry that has grown in popularity all over the world."

People have until 15 April to comment on the plans, with city planners expected to consider them by 17 May.

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This news was gathered by the Local Democracy Reporting Service which covers councils and other public service organisations.