The Arc – a new climbing centre in Chippenham

We are delighted to announce that our fifth climbing centre will be called The Arc.

The Arc is being built in Chippenham, a market town around 30 miles east of Bristol. The centre which is being built by Chippenham Borough Lands Charity and will be managed by TCA is one of the first climbing centres in the UK to be purpose-built.

Naming the climbing centre

And the winner is…

The competition to name our new centre was won by Chippenham resident Karen Jones. With almost 200 entries from locals including school children and climbers from further afield, the judging process was extremely difficult. The standard of entries was very high with many creative, thoughtful and clever ideas. 

Karen’s winning entry took inspiration from the location noting that Arc came from Avon River climbing, although the final name will not be used as an acronym. Chippenham is also set within a notable arc-shaped bend of the River Avon. The judges agreed that The Arc is a strong, simple and memorable name that will serve the community well. A big thank you to everyone who took the time to enter. Our logo depicts one of Chippenham’s most recognisable features, the railway viaduct that runs through the town.

A new community hub

Parkland and activities in Chippenham

The Arc will be a pivotal element in the newly developed community parkland and activity centre in Westmead, which will include a skate park, cafe, a woodland sculpture trail and open green space – making it a fun destination for all the family.

We hope to open to the public by Spring 2022. Job opportunities are being advertised now with a closing date of Mon 31 May 2021. Follow @TCA_TheArc on Instagram or our TCA Bristol page for more updates.

Sport England 

CBLC was awarded £100,000 of National Lottery Funding from Sport England to help build the climbing centre. Thanks to everyone who plays for your support!