LOPC Kayak Launch Appeal
We need to reconstruct the kayak launch at Leicester Outdoor Pursuits Centre before it collapses, enabling safer and easier access for both able-bodied and disabled users to enjoy paddle sports.
About the Project Creator
Formerly part of Leicester County Council's Outdoor Education provision, the Centre was closed down over 21 years ago. A group of enthusiasts clubbed together to get the Centre re-open & this year (2018) the Leicester Outdoor Pursuit Centre (LOPC) celebrates 21 years as an Independent Charity.
Set in 15 Acres of land on the edge of Leicester City Centre, the LOPC is a community hub, inviting huge numbers of participants to the centre; last year over 30,000 people visited to take part in activities at the LOPC. The wide range of both indoor and outdoor activities include: Archery, Rifle-shooting, Bushcraft activities, High Ropes Activities such as Climbing, Abseiling, Leap of Faith & Zip-wire as well as a variety of Paddle-sports.
Our Paddle-sports are very popular, running 52 weeks of the year. Instructors take a wide age range (from +5 years old and recently a 78 year old) and mix of capability out in Canoes, Kayaks, Bell-boats, Kata-Kanu’s or Stand-up Paddle-boards on their 1st ever experience or support them all the way through British Canoeing Coaching Awards.
The kayak launching area has become undercut by the river and is difficult or even dangerous at times to operate in the variety of weather / river conditions we experience. We are in need of funding to redevelop the launch area: stabilising the riverbank, increase the size of the launch area, making access on and off of the water easier & safer. This will also open up the opportunity for supporting more disability groups to participate.