Cheddar Gorge Access Info

Please see the latest Cheddar Access info for 2008 from the BMC

Cheddar Gorge Access 2008
 

The 2008 CLOSED PERIODS for climbing at Cheddar Gorge are:

* Easter (Fri 21 - Mon 24 March)
* May Bank Hol (Sat 3 - Mon 5 May)
* Whitsun (Sat 24 May - Sun 1 Jun)
* Summer (Mon 1 Jul - Sun 7 Sep)

All of these dates are INCLUSIVE. Climbing is available on restored routes on the south side of Cheddar Gorge outside of the restricted periods shown above.

Please also note the following:

a. Extended access to restored climbs in 2008: The owners – Cheddar Caves & Gorge (CC&G) have agreed to a further extended period this year. During the extended periods in 2007 there were numerous infringements by climbers. It is essential that climbers respect the restrictions this year otherwise future access to the Gorge will be put in jeopardy.

b. Wardening: The BMC is supporting a warden during the extended periods this year; the warden's job will be make sure that people stick to agreed restrictions with the ultimate aim of ensuring safety to general public and day visitors.

c. Climbing in restricted areas: If you are found climbing in restricted areas you will be asked to move to an unrestricted area – the warden has the BMC’s authority to ask this of you so don’t be surprised. It is also possible that intentional or repeat offenders will be banned from climbing in Cheddar Gorge from now on.

d. Liability Insurance/BMC Membership: It is a requirement of climbing on CC&G crags at Cheddar that you must hold suitable 3rd party liability insurance cover. All BMC members automatically receive £5m of 3rd party cover as part of their membership. Please note that this is the only cover recognised by CC&G. If you unable to demonstrate you are a BMC member - again - you may be asked to leave. All BMC members (club and individual) have now been issued with membership cards so you are strongly advised to take your card with you to Cheddar to demonstrate your membership and insurance if asked.

e. Code of Practice: The agreed code of practice for climbing in Cheddar Gorge is shown in the supplement guidebook – The Cheddar Gorge Climbing Project – A Photo-Guide to Restored Climbs in Cheddar Gorge, Martin Crocker 2006.

CC&G have gone a long way to accommodating improved climbing access in recent years so please respect the agreed arrangements.

Note: This is an interim statement.  Further details will follow - please check the BMC website and the Regional Access Database (RAD).

By Dave Turnbull"

From the BMC - Cheddar Gorge Access 2008