Outdoor centre could shut as cash injection stalls

An outdoor education centre near Whitby may have to close its doors for good after 70 years because investment in the site has stalled.

North Yorkshire Council chiefs have been recommended to cancel a planned cash injection into East Barnby Outdoor Centre and use a different facility.

The centre temporarily closed in December after concerns about the condition of the electrics, and it now needs significant investment over the next three years to reopen and remain operational.

In 2023, the council agreed a £4.2m revamp of its Bewerley Park and East Barnby centres, but while the site near Pateley Bridge was successfully modernised, work never took place on the east coast facility.

The authority's executive would be asked next week to approve plans to cease investment at the site, terminate its lease with the Mulgrave Estate and formally end outdoor learning provision from the site, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

Officers say outdoor education can continue to be offered from Birch Hall Scout Camp, between Whitby and Scarborough, until July 2028 while it considers longer-term options.

Annabel Wilkinson, Executive Member for Education, Learning and Skills at North Yorkshire Council, said: "For many children and young people, outdoor learning offers the chance to try new experiences, build friendships and develop skills that will stay with them throughout their lives.

"The proposals being considered seek to ensure there is no disruption to outdoor learning opportunities for children and young people while we consider options for the future delivery of the service on the east coast."

As well as issues with the electrics, surveys have uncovered asbestos and raised concerns about the site's ageing water system.

Because the site is leased rather than owned by the council, officers say capital expenditure on the site would provide no long-term asset for taxpayers.

East Barnby has provided residential and day outdoor education for generations of children, with facilities including a climbing wall, orienteering course, ski slope and mountain bike skills track.

During the 2025-26 academic year, about 1,700 primary pupils from 48 schools attended residential stays.

The council acknowledged its location was particularly important for children from deprived communities around Scarborough, Whitby and Filey.

Councillors will be asked to approve the proposals when the executive meets on 18 August.

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