A local climbing advocate is “quietly confident” about the future of a Cromwell indoor climbing facility after a survey showed almost 500 residents support the project.

Project spokesperson Kieran Parsons said his goal was 500 responses and he was happy with the engagement from the community.

“Four hundred and seventy-five [people] said they would like to see a community climbing wall in Cromwell.

“We’ve got really rich data from the survey… 98 people said they would use the wall once a week. 

“There was incredible support… and it was obvious in the survey comments with things said like; ‘make it happen’, ‘I’d use this’ and ‘it would be great for my grandkids’.”

Kieran said some respondents from the far corners of Central or even outside the district said they would carpool to come to Cromwell to climb if they could.

“I’m using the results to help formulate a strategic plan and a business plan.”

He is also getting to grips with the costs involved in setting up and ongoing maintenance for the facility. 

“It’s worth doing it well and being considered in our approach… to try to get the best results for the community.”

The Central climbing community is growing with outdoor climbing developing in recent years in Cromwell and Alexandra.

Kieran, the main administrator for Central Otago Rock Climbing Facebook page, said he is frequently contacted by parents looking for climbing coaching.

“Rock climbing is coming into the mainstream, it’s been there in European countries for a while.

“If we had an indoor facility it’s much more accessible for people; to introduce them to the sport, to get instruction, meet others and practise their skills.” 

He said he has had lots of people suggest possible buildings or offer ideas about groups he could link up with.

“I’ve got a long list of calls to work through.” 

He still is looking for expertise in the planning area, as well as help on fundraising.

“If you’ve worked on a similar community project and you [might] have some advice to share on the process, [get in touch].

Kieran is hoping to create a facility where bouldering, sport climbing, and coaching can all be offered. 

Bouldering is climbing without a rope or harness and you climb only a few metres off the ground. 

Those keen to try bouldering can head to Alexandra’s Boulder Inn at Molyneux Stadium. The floor is cushioned, it is $5 to enter, hours are 1-5pm Wednesday, and 1-5pm Saturday and Sunday. 

To contact Kieran about the potential Cromwell facility email: [email protected]. 

Read more: Project to bring climbing to Central.