Caving centre planned

Oldham explorers could soon be going underground for their adrenaline fix — in a caving system in Saddleworth.

Plans for an artificial labyrinth to be built underground at the Castleshaw Centre in Delph are steaming ahead for what would be the first attraction of its kind in the borough.

The 10x11 metre man-made caving structure would aim to resemble the real thing — complete with tight gaps to squeeze through, low head-height and re-created stalactites and stalagmites.

The centre’s manager, David Faulconbridge, said: “It is completely different to any other activity we offer and will be an incredibly sensory experience for the young ones.

“We are very rarely in total darkness and it can be quite unnerving, but to get down there in the pitch black with only a head torch and undertake a challenge will be a great learning experience for the children.

Outline plans for the attraction at the site on Waterworks Road have already been passed by Oldham Council’s planning committee.

Mr Faulconbridge added: “Externally the land will not look that different, like a mound or a Tellytubby hill, but inside it will be like a tardis.”

The centre already offers a climbing wall, kayaking and raft building.