BMC Fixed Gear Conference

The Future of Fixed Equipment on British Crags: Technical, legal & financial considerations. The Future of Fixed Equipment on British Crags: Technical, Legal & Financial Considerations Conference will be taking place at YHA Losehill Hall on Saturday 19th September 2026. Across the UK there is a legacy of ageing fixed equipment (bolts) on our crags, whilst new sport climbing venues are still being discovered. Sport climbing has developed in an ad hoc way since the 1980s and there is a growing need to share and agree best practice to ensure continued high standards in the future. Through a series of workshops, practical demos and keynote speakers this important conference – the first of its kind – will bring together local climbing activists and technical specialists (engineering / IRATA / legal / insurance) from across the country to network and share knowledge on key issues including: • Safety and training – anchor selection and installation • Equipment options and new developments • Liability, risk and insurance • Bolt fund structure and governance • Safety and training (combined) – anchor removal and clean up, working at height • Technical standards (e.g. for testing and for re-equipping) • Management of resources e.g. storage and quality control of equipment • · Data systems and record keeping • · Ethics, including decommissioning routes Attendance is now open to any BMC members with an interest in the subject, or aspirations to get involved; attendance is free of charge. The conference will be a great opportunity for sharing experience amongst leading practitioners and nurturing the shared ethos and philosophy that all newly sourced and installed fixed equipment should be of the highest possible standard of the day. FREE accommodation on Friday 18 September is provided at YHA Castleton (please select option at checkout) Please note that this event programme may be subject to minor changes prior to the day.