Mission Statement

The Cheddar Revival Project exists to safeguard and maintain the climbing infrastructure of Cheddar Gorge for current and future generations.

Our mission is to create a sustainable, community-led approach to fixed equipment replacement, route stewardship, and climber education, ensuring that climbing in the Gorge remains safe, accessible, and true to its rich history.

This project proudly builds on Martin Crocker's foundational work — The Cheddar Gorge Climbing Project (2003–2005), which restored many of the Gorge's finest climbs from years of neglect and rampant vegetation.

The Cheddar Revival Project continues that legacy by applying modern best practice, transparent governance, and volunteer engagement to maintain the integrity of one of the UK's most significant sport climbing venues and landscapes.

We recognise that the long-term future of climbing at Cheddar Gorge depends on strong partnerships. We therefore work closely and respectfully with the landowners, Cheddar Gorge & Caves (Longleat Estate) and the National Trust, whose cooperation, trust, and stewardship make climbing in the Gorge possible. The climbing community owes a deep and ongoing debt of gratitude to both organisations for their continued support.

Our Core Objectives

In pursuing this mission, the Cheddar Revival Project aims to:

• Identify fixed equipment in Cheddar Gorge that is deemed to be in need of replacement, and arrange for its replacement using the most sustainable and appropriate methods available at the time — following the UIAA recommendation of the installation of high-quality anchors intended to last over 50 years to ensure long-term safety and minimise ecological impact.
• Obtain and maintain landowner permissions for the inspection, maintenance, and replacement of fixed equipment within the Gorge.
• Work collaboratively with landowners and relevant authorities to ensure the safety of the general public, climbers, and volunteers during preparation, access, and installation works.
• Raise funds to support fixed equipment replacement and associated safety work, including but not limited to donations, community collections, online appeals, and applications for grant aid from appropriate organisations and funding bodies.
• Liaise and cooperate with relevant external organisations, including the British Mountaineering Council (BMC) and its staff, the BMC South West Area, the South West Fixed Equipment CIC, ASSAR, Cheddar Parish Council, Somerset Council, and the Mendip Hills National Landscape, as and when appropriate.

Our Commitment