Some have claimed that wavepools are ‘anti-surfing’ but it’s hard to argue with a device which will help a whole lot more people get into the sport.
With North Sea swells bringing waves to the popular Belhaven Bay in Edinburgh and other sites a short drive from the city, this could it a prime location for inner-city surfing trips and for beginner surfers.
What They Say
Co-founder of Tartan Leisure Ltd Andy Hadden said: “Wavegarden Scotland is a thrilling new concept in the adventure leisure industry. 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.”
Gavin Barrie, convener of City of Edinburgh Council’s economic committee, said: “The Wavegarden Scotland project appears an exciting addition to active participant sport in the Edinburgh area.
“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.”
William Watson, president of the Scottish Surfing Federation said: “We fully support this fantastic project and will continue to work with Tartan Leisure Ltd to ensure it fits with the best interests of Scottish surfing.”
The wavegarden is also hoping to create at least 80 new jobs in the area.
The Future of Wave Pools
After the opening of Surf Snowdonia, Fernando Aguerre, president of the International Surfing Association said: “This a historic moment that will revolutionise our sport. [With Surf Snowdonia], we can host world-class surfing competitions with waves that are always consistent, powerful and publically available.”
It’s thought that the invention of the wavegarden was also crucial in surfing’s successful bid to become an Olympic sport for 2020 – though rumours are now circulating that the Olympics will use ocean waves rather than artificial.
A further wavegarden is currently in the planning stages for Bristol in the United Kingdom as well, while Kelly Slater has also been working on a wavegarden of his own.
