CLOSE to 1,000 people have had their say on “once in a generation” proposals to build a multi-million-pound surf lagoon on green belt land.
The plans were submitted in November and have since been flooded by thousands of consultation responses from residents, interested parties as well as official consultees.
As reported, developers W. H. White want to transform land south east of the A31, either side of Brocks Pine in St Leonards and Avon Heath Country Park, for the development of a surf lagoon, outdoor climbing wall, visitor reception, cafe and administration building with an ancillary glamping site and more.
The total cost is currently estimated at £26 million by the site developer. This comprises £25 million for the surf lagoon and associated development, and £1 million for the SANG and Avon Country Park extension.
Opinions have been voiced by people living within half a mile of the site, along with some from places such as Winchester, East Grinstead, Hertfordshire and even Birmingham.
In May this year, the official response count stood at 434 objections and 291 supporting comments – with dozens more for both sides given since. Following this, developers made amendments to the plans.
One resident said: “The provision of these facilities and services will enhance the attraction of the area, bring much needed inward investment and employment to the area, and complement the existing facilities at Moors Valley.”
- Read more: Mixed response at consultation for Dorset surf lagoon
- Read more: Surf lagoon and Avon Heath Country Park plans submitted
Another said: “Our planet is already under enough pressure, we should not be destroying it to create fake waves when the beach is less than 15 minutes away. Our children do not need anymore. What they need is clean fresh air, not polluted air from all the additional traffic that would come through the area.”
Despite concerns around the environmental impacts of the proposals, the Environment Agency responded in January with no objection.
Further issues around how traffic would cope with the project have also been at the forefront of many objections. The applicant’s highways consultant met with Dorset Highways in May and several clarifications were made to application.
Reference was made to the potential for pedestrian crossing improvements across the A31 at the Woolsbridge roundabout. However, it was agreed that most users of the surf lagoon were unlikely to come by foot or bicycle – therefore addressing pedestrian connectivity across the A31 was not needed.
In their re-submitted application, developers said: “This development proposal has been publicly described as a once in a lifetime opportunity for Dorset to cement its reputation as a surf destination and natural playground. But it is also an important opportunity to provide a new SANG and an extension to a popular country park.”
It is planned that the lagoon would operate daily from 6am until 10pm, except on Fridays and Saturdays when it would remain open until 11pm.
Residents can comment on the application until Friday, July 8.
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