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New action-packed climbing centre for Ipswich wants to appeal to young after recent violence

What the Clip 'n Climb centre might look like Picture: BAREFOOT&GILLES BAREFOOT&GILLES

Bosses behind a new climbing and activity complex in Ipswich have set out their vision for the facility in the wake of recent tragedies.

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The Vertical Drop slide, which is due to be built at the Ipswich centre. Picture: ENTRE-PRISES/GAVIN NEWMAN/CLIP 'N CLIMB The Vertical Drop slide, which is due to be built at the Ipswich centre. Picture: ENTRE-PRISES/GAVIN NEWMAN/CLIP 'N CLIMB

Mark Patterson, director of the Clip ‘n Climb centre earmarked for Ransomes Europark, plans to make it attractive to young people in the town, as well as adults and families.

Featuring one of the UK’s highest slides, the adrenalin-pumping attraction was recently given the green light by council planners.

It is set to move into a site at The Havens, near the Ipswich East fire station.

Mr Patterson said he has been deeply saddened by recent attacks in Ipswich, and wants to provide a place where young people can go and relax, rather than being out on the streets.

One of the towering climbing challenges at a Clip 'n Climb complex. Picture: ENTRE-PRISES/GAVIN NEWMAN/CLIP 'N CLIMB One of the towering climbing challenges at a Clip 'n Climb complex. Picture: ENTRE-PRISES/GAVIN NEWMAN/CLIP 'N CLIMB

“Our focus with Clip ‘n Climb is to include everyone, including families, but we want to make sure we are there for young people in town,” said Mr Patterson.

“The news has been really harrowing recently particularly with attacks and a recent death, just round the corner from our centre.

“It’s important for us that we engage with the community and really act as a place young people can hang out but also discover a new hobby or sport.”

Ipswich teenager Tavis Spencer-Aitkens died after he was fatally wounded in Packard Avenue on June 2.

Bosses say it is impossible to get bored at a Clip 'n Climb centre. Picture: ENTRE-PRISES/GAVIN NEWMAN/CLIP 'N CLIMB Bosses say it is impossible to get bored at a Clip 'n Climb centre. Picture: ENTRE-PRISES/GAVIN NEWMAN/CLIP 'N CLIMB

Since then, the community has called for action.

Participants can catch hold of a trapeze with the Leap of Faith attraction, while a range of climbing walls will be installed at the activity centre for people of all ages.

Chiefs also hope to open a cafe at the complex.

Mr Patterson added that it will have a community feel, and provide a boost for the Europark with the impending arrival of a Nando’s restaurant.

“It is fantastic for the area, every single person will have use of the building. I think it will give it a real boost,” he said. “As you know there are lots of different activities on offer, and we’re hoping to have a cafe or some sort too.

“It’s got to have a community feel.”

He added: “It will be good for teenagers and adults, with the highest challenges a real test for anyone’s courage.”