CONSTRUCTION for a new ‘state-of-the-art’ indoor climbing centre is now underway.

Parthian Climbing Southampton, which will offer 25,000 square feet of world-class climbing, is being built at Adanac Park, Nursling.

Designed and built by the official Olympic climbing wall supplier, Entre-Prises, the centre will include extensive climbing walls.

Visitors will be able to enjoy bouldering, roped climbing; both top rope and lead; auto-belays, and even the new Olympic discipline of Speed Climbing where climbers can duel against each other in a race to the top.

It is also set to house a carbon copy of the bouldering wall that will feature at the 2021 Tokyo Olympic Games, the only wall of its kind in Europe.

CEO of Parthian Climbing, John Dunne says: “We are hugely excited to share news of our new Parthian Climbing venture that brings together our existing centres with a new state-of-the-art venue.

“Our team is passionate about all elements of climbing and look forward to welcoming new and experienced climbers to enjoy our new centre.”

Those taking their first steps into the sport will be able to access expert instruction and coaching from some of the most qualified and experienced instructors in the UK.

Steve Hilton, Director of Entre-Prises UK says: “It is a really exciting time for Entre-Prises with our walls featuring at the upcoming Olympics and we are proud to bring some of the magic of the world’s biggest sporting event to the UK.”

The centre is expected to open its doors to customers in Spring 2021, creating 30 jobs, both full-time and part-time.

Test Valley Borough Councillor, Cllr Alan Dowden said: “Not only is it an Olympic facility, but it also gives youngsters and grown-ups an opportunity to participate in these sorts of activities.

“I think it’s a wonderful opportunity for a lot of people.

“This sort of facility should be encouraged and we’re fortunate something like that is coming to Test Valley.”