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Work has begun on Go Ape course at Coombe Abbey

Work has begun on a new tree-top obstacle course at Coombe Abbey which is on track to open to the public next month.

Go Ape will officially open at the venue in April giving thrill-seekers a chance to tackle the high ropes adventures and test their bravery.

The attraction, which will be based in the park, will feature The Plummet, a 12-metre free-fall vertical drop, a dual Tarzan Swing and a 200m double zip course finale.

As the city celebrates being European City of Sport, contractors are now on site and working to install the platforms, rope walks and safety equipment to make sure everything is ready for the official opening.

Richard Harrison, Managing Director of Coombe Abbey Park Limited, who operate the Hotel and cafes within the park and have partnered with Go Ape on this project, is pleased to have the attraction coming to the park and thought it offered something completely different to the area.

He said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to be working with Go Ape to build its first course in Coventry and Warwickshire here at Coombe Abbey.

“It is going to be a fantastic attraction for the area and we are looking forward to seeing it up and running for people to enjoy.”

Around 30 jobs are expected to be created for the site, which will open from February to December each year.

Councillor Abdul Khan, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member responsible for Parks, said: “The exciting addition of a high wire assault course for park visitors to enjoy is great news especially with the planned opening in time for the Easter holiday period.

“Coombe Abbey Park is a much-loved attraction which generations of local people have come to enjoy down the years.

“With this new, outdoor course coming to the park it provides another great reason for people to visit Coombe and the park and to make the most of their time and enjoy the facilities and hopefully come back again as the city builds up to UK City of Culture in 2021.”

Councillor Jim O’Boyle cabinet member for Jobs and Regeneration, said: “It was great to see Go Ape taking shape at the park. I’m sure it will be a great attraction for people of all ages to enjoy.

“It nestles in to the trees really well and people will have a great view of the park and lake as the zip along and take on the tree trop adventure.

“I’m certain it will be really popular, and it will contribute to the council’s financial return from Coombe Abbey Hotel.”

Ben Davies, Head of Business Development at Go Ape, added: “The opportunity to bring our version of adventure to the wonderful surroundings of Coombe Abbey Park is a privilege, and we look forward to seeing the people of Warwickshire swinging in the trees soon.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Matt Joyce .