Newport climbing centre prepares to reopen
A popular independent Shropshire climbing centre is preparing to open its doors and walls again from next week, as the Government’s coronavirus strategy moves onto the next step out of lockdown.
Newport Rock, which operates out of a unit off the Springfields Industrial Estate in Newport, will open up for the first time in months next Monday, April 12.
It follows the Prime Minister’s confirmation this week that indoor leisure and exercise facilities can reopen in line with the Government ‘road map’ out of Covid lockdown.
The centre will open as usual from 4pm, with similar hygiene and safety rules in place.
Owner Karl Smith said: “In terms of Covid compliance, it will be pretty much as it was before [the most recent lockdown].
“We’ll be asking people to wear masks when they’re not climbing and to use liquid chalk.”
Many of the modifications made last year between lockdowns will be re-implemented from next week.
Looking forward
A screen was installed at the centre's reception area last year and climbers were asked to modify how they get around the centre to reduce any risk of transmission.
Powdered climbing chalk is no longer permitted and liquid chalk with high alcohol content is now mandated, and sold at the centre.
There is a limit on the number of people allowed in the centre at one time in the interest of safety, but so far that limit has not yet been reached.
“I’m just looking forward to reopening and hopefully seeing people again,” said Mr Smith.
There are no plans to implement a booking system for climbers as other centres around the country have, but visitors to Newport Rock are asked to arrive as 'ready to climb' as possible to reduce any risk of mixing.
Visit facebook.com/newport.rock.3 to learn more.
Gyms and other indoor exercise facilities will also be opening again from Monday.
