The Climbing Hangar, which already operates a facility in Liverpool’s northern docklands, is now launching in the south of the city.

A indoor climbing wall has opened its doors to the public for the first time in south Liverpool after seeing its launch delayed by the coronavirus lockdown.

The Climbing Hangar, which already operates a facility in Liverpool’s northern docklands as well as in Plymouth, London and Swansea, secured planning permission for its new outlet at the Matchworks in Garston at the start of the year.

Last weekend it opened for the first time at the site, owned by Urban Splash, making it available to the public via pre-booked sessions and in line with Government guidance on COVID-19. The centre is available to adults and children as young as seven, and a new coffee house is also included.

Ged Macdomhnaill, chief executive of The Climbing Hangar, said: “I’m delighted the time has finally come, and that we are in a position to safely welcome people into our space, following Government guidelines and putting additional health and safety measures in place to protect everyone in our space.”

Features of the new centre include a training board and the visually stunning climbing wall featuring a wide variety of climbs for novice and hardcore climbers alike. Several climbs were designed by Team GB’s pro climber Shauna Coxsey.

Mr Macdomhnaill added: “We worked alongside the Matchworks architect team at shedkm to execute a vision for a new, high spec, health and fitness facility; the result is something pretty special here and we’re looking forward to showing everyone what’s on offer.”

Nicky Harries of Urban Splash, said: “The Matchworks is a diverse place, home to a rich array of businesses – with The Climbing Hangar extending that mix. It is a place which transcends the 9 to 5; there’s our gym, outside space for plenty of walks and outside leisure areas to play table tennis – there’s so much more here than workspace.

“The Climbing Hangar is going to be a brilliant place for our occupiers and visitors to the area to enjoy a fun fitness activity, as well as offering a new coffee house. With social distancing and hygiene guidelines respected, it will be a brilliant hub for the community.”