Plans for a new four-storey £1m Sky Trail visitor attraction in Stockton look set to move a step closer.
The 17m-high “high ropes course” at the Tees White Water Course could soon be dominating the Teesside skyline as plans submitted last year are set to be discussed by Stockton planners at a meeting on Wednesday.
The attraction would be the highest of its kind in the UK and it would be the only place in the country where a Sky Trail can be found alongside an Olympic standard white water course, making it a unique adventure outdoor facility.
It is estimated that the Sky Trail would generate a projected surplus of at least £100,000 per year while also significantly increasing visitor numbers to Stockton Borough.
Stockton Council’s Cabinet originally approved plans for the concept in July last year “as a basis for investment.”
At the time, councillors at the meeting also said that it would help improve visitor attraction to the already popular Tees Barrage International White Water rafting course which the Sky Trail would stand beside.
This came after it was agreed in February last year, that the council would allocate funding to further develop Tees Active facilities on an “invest-to-save” basis as part of the Medium Term Financial Plan.
The attraction would be run by Tees Active, which runs leisure facilities and activities across the borough on behalf of Stockton Council.
The facility will include two zip rails and a 10m high climbing wall at one end.
A design and access report accompanying the planning application states: “The introduction of this ropes course and climbing attraction will have a positive impact to the Tees White Water Centre and will develop the offer in the area.
“It will bring more visitors to Stockton and must be seen as a positive to be supported through the planning process.”
Speaking previously to The Gazette, Councillor Ken Dixon, Cabinet member for arts, leisure and culture, said: “We already have a world-class facility in the white water course and the Sky Trail would complement this.
“Stockton is quickly becoming a fun and vibrant visitor destination. The introduction of Sky Trail would be another exciting addition.”
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