The world’s first community-owned, commons climbing gym is getting closer to reality. It will be a flagship for the commons models (around finance, governance, asset locking and federation) that we’re trialling in Stroud. We’ve launched our crowdfunding through Spacehive with up to £10k match funding by the District Council. Share widely and let’s reach our target!
The journey
From a few of us getting together in pubs, to meetings in each other’s homes, hours of read-ups, firing emails and phone calls, meticulous modelling, resourcing, negotiating, pulling back at the last minute and resurfacing. So many people have helped us along the way and with your support, we’re now ready for the final push to get this facility built in Stroud.
We were touched by how many of you have trusted us to deliver this project with over £16k still remaining from the first round of crowdfunding. We’ve applied for three grants and we’re now launching this second crowdfunding to build the best community facility we can. We think that this is our best shot, with Brimscombe Mill as our host, who kindly agreed to let us their prime space for an affordable rent with a grace period.
You can help by pledging here
” We have enough money in Stroud to easily fund this project and more.” – Stroud resident
Last time, we sold memberships. This time, we are limited by the Spacehive platform to provide any rewards in return. But we have some off-platform quirks lined up for people who donate, which will get announced in the coming weeks. From £5 to £1000, whatever you can give will move us closer.
Any amount left over will be used to:
- subsidise entry for young people
- provide free climbing shoes rental
- buy LED lighting for walls, which will make the facility more accessible for new climbers
- secure larger, more expensive holds
- pay staff to open the facility for more hours
- subsidise coaching sessions for the wider public
What we’ll deliver
- Build an affordable indoor bouldering facility of 700-1000 sqft
- Organise regular public events for the community
- Ensure there is safe and secure access to the facility
Why it’s a great idea
Climbing is a uniquely collaborative and inclusive sport—people of all ages and backgrounds connect by encouraging each other, problem-solving together, and building trust. The ideal sport for the commons!
Unlike many sports, climbing naturally fosters conversation and mutual support. It offers a social, phone-free alternative to traditional gyms for young people.
Our project provides a welcoming, affordable space for families and individuals on lower incomes, many of whom are currently priced out. It brings people together who wouldn’t otherwise meet, creating strong, cross-community relationships.
We will run targeted, subsidised sessions for young people and families, offering early, positive opportunities for physical activity, confidence-building, and connection.
By keeping costs low and working with local partners, we’re directly supporting those most affected by the cost-of-living crisis—making sure that access to sport, connection, and community is available to everyone, not just those who can afford it.
Steps to get it done
- May- Begin ordering holds – resurface – collect factory seconds. Community meeting to discuss design.
- July – Order all the components.
- August and September – Building, testing and signoff
- October- Open the facility
