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22 Feb 2017
Plans tabled for Edinburgh surf lagoon
By Alice Davis
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Landscape architects Harrison Stevens designed the master plan
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The public consultation process begins today (22 February) for a proposed outdoor surf park just half an hour from Edinburgh in Scotland.
A derelict quarry would be transformed into Wavegarden Scotland in a multi-million pound operation by developers Tartan Leisure. The company’s plans will be put to the public during two open consultations taking place on 22 and 27 February.
If the response is positive, Tartan Leisure would file a planning application by the end of Q2. Teaming up with the Spanish wave technology firm Wavegarden, the disused Craigpark Quarry near Ratho would be turned into a lake. When the leisure park is in operation, Wavegarden's wave generation system creates a unbroken series of consistently powerful waves catering to both experienced and beginner surfers.
“Wavegarden Scotland is a thrilling new concept in the adventure leisure industry,” said Andy Hadden, co-founder of Tartan Leisure. “If approved, it could position Scotland as a leading surfing destination as the country already has some world-class natural breaks. We’ve received fantastic feedback on our plans to date and we look forward to sharing them with the local community.”
If given the go ahead, Wavegarden Scotland will offer accommodation, a coffee shop and a recreation park – plus, the site is close the Edinburgh International Climbing Arena, doubling its appeal as an adventure destination.
Councillor Gavin Barrie praised the project proposal, saying that "anything that encourages people, whether young or old, to lead an active lifestyle and enjoy all the benefits that come with it is likely to garner support across the city. Hopefully others will share my enthusiasm for development.”
A similar surf lagoon facility opened in 2015 in north Wales, with Surf Snowdonia welcoming 150,000 visitors in its first full season.
Continuing the trend, surf lagoons are also planned for Austin, Texas and Melbourne, Australia.
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