A REVAMPED rock-climbing wall is returning to a popular sports complex after a two-year hiatus.

Climbers will get their fist glimpse of the improved wall when it officially opens at Basildon Sporting Village next month.

Service provider Rock Hub will manage and run the climbing wall, and have vowed to make changes to it every four weeks to provide variety to experienced customers.

The old climbing wall at the sporting village was shut when the pandemic hit in 2020, and did not re-open owing to concerns about social distancing and other Covid restrictions.

Bosses say new additions to the wall will include training equipment, such as campus boards.

Jeff Henry, councillor responsible for leisure, said: “It’s excellent, it’s a boost of confidence to people and it helps with improving the public health.

“We’ve gone through lockdown, and this is part of the return to normality.

“We’re very excited to return equipment and activities that were very popular before the pandemic and will continue to be long after.”

The wall will officially open on Saturday, October 1, with renowned British climber Neil Gresham set to make a guest appearance.

A taster session will be running the day after in an attempt to bring in new climbers.

The climbing wall will have a range of courses from adult beginners, social nights, refreshers, and clubs for kids.

“This relaunch weekend will be an exciting way to kickstart the eagerly awaited return of Basildon Sporting Village’s popular climbing wall,” Mr Henry continued.

“We’re delighted to see the wall returning, to give our adventurous residents a high-quality location to climb within our borough.”

Shaun Beagle, area contract manager at Everyone Active which runs Basildon Sporting Village, added: “This is set to be a fun-filled weekend for all climbers.

“There’s been a real buzz around the wall that’s been building in the centre over the past few weeks.

“Neil Gresham is well-established in the climbing world so we’re sure that Rock Hub will see lots of interest in his sessions.”