Thrill-seekers can rejoice after a multi-million pound Bear Grylls theme park was given the green light.
The Bear Grylls Adventure, which will open as a permanent feature at Birmingham’s National Exhibition Centre, will feature a range of adrenaline-pumping attractions.
The attraction is being created in partnership with adventurer Bear Grylls, and will include indoor skydiving, scuba diving, Europe’s highest free-roam high ropes and ziplining from a Chinook Helicopter.
In addition guests will be given entry to Basecamp, where everyone can learn and practice the skills needed for any great adventure in a selection of four group and individual challenges.
An artist’s impression of the Bear Grylls Adventure, which is set to be built as a permanent attraction at Birmingham’s National Exhibition Centre
The £2million pound park is being built in partnership with adventurer Bear Grylls and will include a range of adrenaline-pumping features
In addition to indoor skydiving (above), the park will also offer guests scuba diving, Europe’s highest free-roam high ropes and ziplining from a Chinook Helicopter
Bear Grylls said: ‘I have been so lucky to experience some of the toughest environments and challenges the world has to offer.
‘When your greatest fears are laid bare, you have to keep your nerve and dig deep.
‘That ‘never give up spirit’ is what I hope to inspire in as many people as possible through this huge endeavour.
Bear Grylls said: ‘I have been so lucky to experience some of the toughest environments and challenges the world has to offer’
‘The scale of challenges that can be found at Bear Grylls Adventure are truly mind blowing and it allows millions of others to find the courage and tenacity to conquer their own Everest.’
But while the £20million project has been given the green light, backers Merlin have said the facility may partially close when it opens next autumn — because it will be directly in the path of a planned rail link to HS2.
Bear Grylls on his way up to the top of Cnicht in Snowdonia as Merlin Entertainment announces the launch of ‘The Bear Grylls Adventure
Its owners will receive two months’ notice prior to any work beginning on the high-speed rail line, requiring them to take down attractions or relocating them.
Nick Varney, CEO Merlin Entertainments, said: ‘In a project that has taken nearly two years in the creation, Bear has been involved in each step of the attraction’s development – from the initial concept, to providing expertise and insight into the challenges.
‘The market for adventure-based activities has incredible potential. Our research shows that nine out of ten young adults* are actively seeking adventure and challenge experiences, and this trend is set to continue.’