Very positive progress has been made on securing access to Dali's Hole at Dinorwig Slate Quarries. Following many months of conflict, altercations and access problems at this popular low grade slate venue, the BMC have undertaken lengthy and complicated negotiations to try to secure access to this venue.

Possibly a victim of its own success, the sudden rise in popularity of the easy grade sports climbs at this venue, combined with a large block-buster movie being filmed at the location, prompted the landowners to erect a high security fence and enforce restrictions at this site.  First Hydro, who own the site and manage the Dinorwig Power Station have no desire to restrict access for climbers, but had received legal advice that they could be liable for the safety of members of the public, and in particular groups of novice and young climbers who were using the site.

Negotiations have been ongoing between the BMC and First Hydro to resolve the situation and First Hydro have  now agreed in principle to a BMC proposal for the BMC to manage the climbing at Dali's Hole area. While the fine details and formal agreement is yet to be finalised, the outlook is now looking very positive for climbing at this site.

Access for climbers will in all probability be by a gated entrance, controlled by a key pad, similar to the arrangement recently agreed at Fairy Caves in the Mendips. It's hoped that the new high fence that was errected last year will be modified (unfortunately it's seems unlikely that it will be removed entirely), and some new low level fencing erected near the top of the crag, and along the pool edge. The bolts would of course be replaced on the existing sports routes and belays.

In the meantime climbers are asked to continue to keep a low profile at this particular venue and use discretion and common sense if approached by security staff.

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