270 Climbing Park, a large-scale indoor and outdoor climbing facility in Gloucestershire, has completed its first year of full trading following a £7m investment in its development, as demand for experiential leisure continues to grow.

The site is owned by twin brothers Robert and David Stevens, with private investors holding a 40 per cent stake. The project has been backed through the Enterprise Investment Scheme, alongside debt funding from the Gloucestershire Infrastructure Fund, enabling a mix of private capital and public support.

The development represents a significant reinvestment by the Stevens brothers, who sold their previous business, Paragon Laundry in Cheltenham, in 2015 and chose to channel the proceeds into a capital-intensive leisure venture. The founders also brought long-standing sector experience, having operated The Warehouse Climbing Centre since the mid-1990s.

Construction began in November 2021 and progressed through a period marked by pandemic disruption, sharp rises in building costs, higher interest rates and complex planning requirements. To manage risk, the six-acre site was delivered in phases, allowing parts of the park to open from 2022 and generate early revenue.

Demand strengthened further with the launch of the bouldering centre in late 2024, when more than 700 memberships were sold in the first month. Subsequent phases expanded the business into multiple income streams, including coaching and youth programmes, competitions and events, day passes and food and beverage services.

The final stage of development was completed in July 2025 with the opening of a purpose-built Olympic-standard climbing arena, enabling the venue to host national and regional competitions across bouldering, lead and speed disciplines.

David Stevens, director of 270 Climbing Park, said the first year of trading marked an important milestone. “The project has been a long-term investment in both the business and the local community, and we are pleased with the early demand,” he said. “Our focus now is on optimising the business and continuing to develop 270 Climbing as a sustainable and versatile facility.”

Despite strong initial take-up, the founders said rising operating costs across the leisure sector — particularly for specialist equipment and skilled staff — remained a challenge. With the full facility now in operation, management is concentrating on improving efficiency, responding to customer feedback and strengthening long-term resilience.

The company believes its diversified revenue model and phased investment approach have positioned it well to navigate ongoing cost pressures while building a stable platform for future growth.