Dalkeith Country Park goes ape for new adventure course application

Visitors to Dalkeith Country Park could be swinging from the tree tops if plans for a new activity centre get the go ahead.

Go Ape submitted photo of equipment.

Go Ape, who operate outdoor high ropes adventure courses at locations across the UK, has applied for planning permission for a  centre at the park.

The company says it has agreed with the Buccleuch Estate, which owns the 2,200 acre park,  to provide its services.

The course will also need to have a reception cabin which will also be used as an office and storage space for equipment.

The proposed Go Ape site at Dalkeith Country Park.

In a statement to Midlothian Council planners, Go Ape said it wants to set up its course in an area of the park north east of the Laundry House and south of Cat Haugh.

It said: “This location has been selected as it complements the existing activities and does not distract from the historic views available within the county park.”

The course is for anyone who is one-metre tall with any child under six needing to be accompanied by an adult.

Go Ape said there are a mixture of rope crossings some of which are aimed at children with more demanding ones for adults.

It said: “Although a degree of physical fitness is required, Go Ape welcomes participation by persons with disabilities.

“Whilst the nature of the activity requires participants to be able to climb a rope ladder without assistance, many people from a wide spectrum of disabilities have successfully completed the course.”

The proposed course will be made up of tree top platforms, wire and rope crossings and zip wire crossings.

Go Ape said: “The majority of the course is high up in the trees. The ground beneath the course will remain publicly accessible as it is now.”

The application is now being considered by planning officers.