Joint chair \u2013 Graham Adcock (SVG), Adrian Paisey (HRMG Chair)<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In attendance: 20 \u2013 25 local climbers (Names not recorded).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
GA opened the meeting by welcoming everyone and outlining the format \u2013 a brief run through of current issues followed by an open discussion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
GA reported on the ongoing resin work at SF by Michael Phelan (MP) and at other outcrops (by GA). AP emphasised that the work should only be carried out by or with knowledge of GA\/MP so that records are kept and materials used are consistent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
GA went on to run through the crags where issues are currently active:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Under Rockes \u2013 a fence\/gate has bee erected across the path opposite Twitt\u2019s Ghyll. At present there is no padlock but a sign stating that it is not a legal right of way has been erected. Climbers were asked to \u2018tread carefully\u2019 and not cause issues. Alternative access routes were briefly discussed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
High Rocks \u2013 Access has been increased to \u00a320. GA to address this with the HR owner along with other issues such as bolt testing, the BMC insurance cover certificate, Rhododendron clearance, Season Tickets\/members only access.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Bull\u2019s Hollow \u2013 Rear bolt above \u2018The Wall\u2019 has been reported as moveable. The bolt has been tagged with a warning and taped off. A report that the front bolt was also moveable is being investigated. The bolting \u2018team\u2019 will be asked to address the issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Happy Valley \u2013 The TW Commons\u2019 Conservators have been supplied with the 2026 BMC insurance notification (care of GA). A bolt inspection is due.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Eridge Rocks \u2013 New signage was deployed 2 weeks ago by GA. Chalk was clearly visible on the Steelmill Wall. Climbers were reminded to be vigilant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
AP stated that reports of prevalent brush use had been received and as a result, the meeting would be asked to review the Code Of Practice text. The meeting was clear that brushing is an issue and that it should be discouraged although an outright ban was considered unworkable as routes are occasionally cleaned. The main issue is the removal of chalk, predominantly but not exclusively on boulder routes. The meeting unanimously agreed with the clause ‘The use of brushes to clean chalk from the rock will cause damage to the fragile surface. Avoid using anything other than a very soft long-bristled brush or a rag’<\/em> should be used in the Code of Practice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A brief discussion about the \u2018wet rock\u2019 clause took place. Robin Mazinke & Neil Atkinson highlighted new research demonstrating that when wet, Sandstone is chemically weaker. The COP clause has been changed to \u2018Avoid climbing on wet rock. Sandstone is more vulnerable in wet conditions as it absorbs moisture. Holds are more likely to fail or break and the surface is easily damaged by gritty or muddy shoes grinding into features. Check the weather and do not climb if it has been wet. All climbers should factor in cancellation and not climb in damp conditions or on wet rock\u2019.<\/em> This was approved by the meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Prior to the meeting, reports were submitted to HRMG regarding the recent crag development work clearing earth between Green Wall and Kukri Wall. Harrisons is not a SSSI and cleaning of established routes is acceptable however, any work to develop new routes by digging the soil at the base should be discussed with the HRMG (BMC) before starting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Ben Mason requested if the BMC could provide small signs with the main highlights from the Code of Practice at popular spots along the crag. AP explained that this has been reviewed previously, however the BMC\u2019s national stance on signage is that it should be minimised with signs at the main entrances. We have 2 additional exceptions at Harrisons with the No Fires signs and the Isolated Buttress access information. If you need to refer to the code of practice, the best option is to refer the information in your \/ their guidebook.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Minutes from the Sandstone Open Meeting held in July 2026.<\/p>\n