“Bristol is where TCA began – it’s part of our DNA”
Kirstie McCrum Network Content Editor
11:02, 18 Jun 2025
The Mothership is one of the venues being sold to local climbing operator Flashpoint Climbing Group(Image: The Climbing Academy Group Ltd)
Bristol climbing centres are to be sold in what their current owners have termed an “incredibly difficult decision”.
The Climbing Academy Group Ltd (TCA) has announced that, after 17 years, it will be selling its two centres in the city – The Mothership and The Church – to local climbing operator Flashpoint Climbing Group (FCG).
TCA said that, despite operating busy and profitable centres, its decision is a response to mounting economic pressures, including sustained inflation, increased operational costs and the impact of new competition opening in both Glasgow and Bristol simultaneously.
These challenges have made it difficult for TCA to continue operating the Bristol sites, is said, combined with the ongoing recovery from a major redevelopment.
“This has been an incredibly difficult decision, and not one we’ve taken lightly,” said TCA Co-Founder and CEO, Rich Emerson.
“Bristol is where TCA began – it’s part of our DNA. We’re deeply proud of the community we’ve helped build here, and of the thousands of climbers who took their first steps on our walls.”
At the end of September, Flashpoint – a well established and respected operator already running successful climbing walls in the region – aims to take over both venues.
As part of the transfer, current TCA Bristol staff will move to Flashpoint under TUPE regulations.
TCA’s CEO Rich Emerson said: “We’re relieved and reassured that both centres will continue in the hands of people who understand and care about the Bristol climbing scene. Flashpoint’s team is made up of local climbers who share our values and commitment to the community.
“They’re excited to build on the success of TCA to grow a network of centres that each have their own identity and strengths – to create an unrivalled offering for climbers in the city. We’re confident they’ll carry TCA’s legacy forward with care and celebrate what makes each wall special.”
Jack Griffiths, CEO at The Flashpoint Group said: “We have long admired what The Church and The Mothership have done for the industry and their unique climbing culture. The Church (originally UCR) was one of the original pioneering climbing walls, and has been open for over 30 years.
“When The Mothership (originally TCA) came along 16 years later they were one of the very first boulder-only facilities in the country, again paving the way for a new generation of walls and climbers. We all owe a debt to these two walls, their founders and their communities.
“None of us would be here without their vision and the responsibility now falls to us to build upon this legacy for future generations.”
This change allows TCA to focus on strengthening its existing centres in Glasgow where it maintains a strong competitive position and in Chippenham where it operates a wall for Chippenham Borough Lands Charity.
The senior team at TCA described the transition as a necessary step to secure the long-term health of the company.
The team is now inviting climbers past and present to share memories using the hashtag #IheartTCA , in celebration of the community that has grown around the Bristol walls.
“TCA Bristol has meant so much to so many,” said Emerson. “While this chapter is ending, we know the community spirit will live on – and we’re grateful for every person who’s been part of the journey – including many who have been with us since week one.”