Across the UK, more and more shops have been closing their doors and high streets are looking increasingly worse for wear.
Our communities are in need of investment, improvement and innovation.
Enter Indirock.
Starting as the dream of husband and wife Emily Vermont and Gordon Conroy in 2019, Indirock was quickly picked up by Southend Council and supported on its journey to transforming a long- term empty unit within The Victoria Centre. Through the trials and tribulations of the pandemic, Indirock is excited to now have Southend Council as its landlords, which promises much opportunity for partnership working in the years to come.
Indoor climbing wall Indirock seeks to give locals and visitors the opportunity to bring some adventure to their every day, by taking part in one of the UK’s fastest growing pastimes. Bouldering is the simplest form of rock climbing, no need for ropes or harnesses. Just a pair of shoes, some chalk and you’re ready to go. Which means it has something for everyone: from experienced climbers to complete beginners.
Currently welcoming adults and children aged 6+, and with classes starting for younger children in April.
Emily Vermont says:
A passion for climbing, as well as a social conscience, inspired the business to be built on 3 fundamental aims:
“We are beyond excited and relieved to finally have opened our doors to the public after three
years of tireless work. We felt strongly that we didn’t want to be one of the voices complaining
about our high street – instead we wanted to be part of a new chapter.
With the council buying Victoria Plaza at the end of 2020, and Southend’s new status as a City, the opportunity is even greater for Indirock to contribute to the area which we love and call home.”
● Creating the most accessible bouldering wall we could, here in Southend
● Being part of the revival of our town centre
● Supporting vulnerable young people from our local area into work
Indirock’s mission aligns with many of Southend Borough Council’s 2050 Plan ambitions: to connect and involve the community; encourage locals to be active and ultimately create a sense of pride and joy in the City in which we live.
Cllr Ian Gilbert, leader of the council and cabinet member for economic recovery and
regeneration, said: “The council is happy to support Indirock as new tenants of the Victoria
Centre. I am sure that the space will attract many of our residents looking to try something new
and also those wanting to relax in the on-site café. The venture is a fresh and unique addition to
our City and I encourage anyone wanting to experience a new way to get active to come and
support this affordable local business.”
James Duddridge MP has already visited for a climb and says: “I’m so impressed with what Gordon and Emily have created with Indirock. It’s a great addition to our high street and just what Southend needs.”
