‘Fresh and unique’ addition to Southend shopping centre now open

Indirock is now up and running in the Victoria Shopping Centre, on Southend High Street, with a unit that had stood empty for 15 years now back in use.

The new climbing site has walls for climbers of all ages and abilities, as well as a coffee shop offering refreshments.

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Emily Vermont owns Indirock with her husband Gordon Conroy, after putting in three years of hard work to make the project a reality.

She said: “We are beyond excited and relieved to finally have opened our doors to the public after three years of tireless work.

“We felt strongly that we didn’t want to be one of the voices complaining about our high street – instead we wanted to be part of a new chapter.

“With the council buying Victoria Plaza at the end of 2020, and Southend’s new status as a city, the opportunity is even greater for Indirock to contribute to the area which we love and call home.”

Bouldering is a form of rock climbing where there is no need for ropes or harnesses.

There will also be classes for children starting in April too.

The shopping centre was purchased by Southend Council for £10million in December 2020.

Ian Gilbert, leader of Southend Council, said: “The council is happy to support Indirock as new tenants of the Victoria Centre.

“I am sure that the space will attract many of our residents looking to try something new and also those wanting to relax in the on-site cafe.

“The venture is a fresh and unique addition to our city, and I encourage anyone wanting to experience a new way to get active to come and support this affordable local business.”

James Duddridge MP, who has already visited for a climb at Indirock, added it is just what Southend needs.

He said: “I am so impressed with what Gordon and Emily have created with Indirock.

“It is a great addition to our high street and just what Southend needs.”