A slice of lottery funding will see a climbing wall set up in south Norfolk, after a popular one was sacrificed for a leisure centre revamp.
News that the climbing wall at Wymondham Leisure Centre would be torn down for the £3.5m South Norfolk Council overhaul was met with a hard-fought protest by instructors and users alike.
But when the council failed to add it into the plans, climbers accepted they would have to use Sportspark wall in Norwich.
Now, £28,120 in lottery funding will see Morley Parish Council install a purpose-built climbing wall at the village hall.
The wall will be managed by South Norfolk Climbing Club (SNCC), a community-led club run by volunteers.
David Eckles, SNCC, said: 'We are delighted that Morley Parish Council have received this funding which means together we can move ahead with creating a greatly anticipated climbing facility, which will be the only one of its kind in south Norfolk.
'Our club is made up of a passionate group of parents, climbers and instructors who are looking forward to offering our local community the opportunity to join in this exciting, confidence-building and social sport.'
Mid Norfolk MP George Freeman said that the investment was 'fantastic news' and that the village hall was going 'from strength to strength'.
The funds come from Sport England's Inspired Facilities Fund.
Martin Wilby, deputy leader of South Norfolk Council, said: 'We are delighted that Sport England has agreed to add to the funding provided by South Norfolk Council to make this project possible. This is a wonderful example of partnership working between the village hall, the parish and district councils and a group of dedicated volunteers.'
It comes just as the first phase of work at Wymondham Leisure Centre is completed, with the sports hall and pool reopened on Monday.
• What do you think of the climbing wall news? Email lauren.cope@archant.co.uk
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here