A NAUTICAL-themed zip wire and standing surf wave will boost the appeal of Bournemouth Pier and be a real asset to the seafront according to the chairman of the planning board.

Councillors unanimously approved the plans for the new attractions and congratulated the applicant, Openwide International, asking if the project could be completed by the summer season.

Chairman of Bournemouth Council’s planning board, Cllr David Kelsey said: “The proposals for the zip wire were really exciting. We even asked the developers if the plans could be completed much quicker at the planning meeting on November 18 so it will be up and running by the summer, the sooner the better.”

“We hope it will be a real asset to the seafront and give a boost to tourism.”

A 20-metre tower will be constructed at the end of the pier and a “zip line” installed which links the tower to a corresponding new landing structure on the beach.

Bournemouth Echo: FLYING HIGH: An artist’s impression of how the zip wire proposed for Bournemouth Pier could look Click to see a larger version of this image

The surf wave attraction will sit towards the end of the pier and give the ultimate simulated surfing experience for beginners.

Member of the planning board, Cllr Philip Stanley-Watts said: “This attraction is innovative and it doesn’t denigrate the pier in any way.”

Councillors turned down plans for a nautical-themed high ropes course and zip line in January, claiming the attraction would be overbearing.

Cllr Kelsey said: “The original plans were hideous, but the developers listened to our recommendations and made the design much more aesthetically pleasing, with a slimmer tower.”

Rory Holburn, director of Openwide International which has a lease agreement on the pier said: “We’ve worked with the various officers of the council and gone through planning consultation to develop this attraction.

“They wanted to see something more empathetic to the pier and that is what we have worked on.”

‘An incredible idea’ for town’s pier

Duncan Mace, 26, from Poole said: “I think the zip wire sounds like an incredible idea. It should attract loads more young people and tourists to use Bournemouth Pier to try out the zip wire and surf machine.”

Emily James, 47, from Kinson said: “I would need to see the plans and design for the zip wire first before I completely decide. I’d be happy as long as the tower doesn’t ruin the look of the Pier because it is a heritage site.”
 

Joyce Mitchell, 38, from Bournemouth said: “I know my kids would absolutely love to try out the zip wire, as long as it’s not too dangerous. The surf machine is also a great addition because a lot of surfers come to the area, so it would be a good place to try it out and have some fun.”

John Ayres, 18, from Bournemouth said: “I would definitely want to have a go, jumping off a tower on Bournemouth Pier sounds hilarious. I know a lot of my friends would want to try and well and I’m sure it will be great.”