A FORMER lawyer is hoping to hit new heights as he bids to open Ulverston's first climbing wall.

A planning application has been submitted to convert the former Lowther Commercials building on Quebec Street into a bouldering-only facility.

Bouldering is a form of rock climbing performed on small rock formations or artificial rock walls without the use of ropes or harnesses.

Hoping his plans prove rock solid with South Lakeland District Council is climbing enthusiast Joe Holden.

Mr Holden saw a demand for a climbing wall which catered for all age groups and abilities close to home.

He said: “I’ve been climbing for the past 15 years and have always had a passion for the sport.

“I think climbing has really taken off in the past few years, most recently being declared as an Olympic sport.

“Cumbria is an historic area for rock climbing too so it seems apt to set up a centre here.”

Mr Holden said he saw a ‘gap in the market’ for a climbing wall in the Furness area.

He said: “When I lived in Sheffield, we visited the climbing wall every day.

"It was a great social scene and way of working out.

“Climbing is the best form of exercise and a great mental challenge too.

“Members can go and have a really great time.”

Mr Holden previously worked at a law firm in Sheffield before deciding to switch careers.

“I worked as an instructor for eight years before focussing purely on my job,” he said.

“I eventually decided that I wanted to pursue climbing full-time as an instructor and thought Ulverston would be the perfect place to do this.”

The centre will host a variety of groups for different age groups and difficulty.

“We’re planning on setting up a kids group after school every day as well as beginner and intermediate courses," he said.

Since announcing his plans, Mr Holden has received a ‘great response’ in the community.

“Local climbers have got in touch and showed their interest,” he said.

“We’re really excited about the plans.”

The centre is aiming to be open in March 2020 - depending on planning approval.