News

Surf’s up in Birmingham as green light given for £25m wave park

Turley is part of the team that has secured unanimous support from North Warwickshire BC’s Planning and Development Board for the UK’s most landlocked surf park, at Coleshill near Birmingham.

Our expert Planning advice to Emerge Surf Birmingham supported their detailed planning application for a £25 million wave park which will feature a 5.4-acre surf lagoon, powered by Wavegarden’s Cove technology, an outdoor heated swimming pool, hub building and a perimeter track for Onewheel electric skateboards. It is expected to create 100 full-time equivalent jobs, attract around 250,000 visitors a year and deliver an annual economic boost of between £18 million - £21 million to the region.

Visitors to the park will also be able to enjoy a surf school, surf shop, café and restaurant, multi-purpose fitness studio, physio and massage room and children’s play area.

Emerge Surf Birmingham will be working in partnership with national governing body Surfing England to deliver certificated surfing tuition and with registered charity Surf Life Saving Great Britain on a wide range of courses for water safety.  The park is also partnering with The Wave Project to deliver therapy through surfing to local children suffering with mental health issues.

 Steve Price, founder and CEO of Emerge Surf, said:

“Our aim with Emerge Surf is to bring a slice of the ocean to Birmingham, creating a haven for landlocked surfers and those wanting to try the sport for the first time. I’m thrilled to see such resounding backing from North Warwickshire Borough Council, recognising our vision and being minded to support the project.

“We’re excited to enter the next phase in our plan to deliver a wave park that will be a huge asset to the region and its already renowned visitor economy. It will provide a world-class experience for surfers of all levels, delivering a positive social impact while supporting mental and physical wellbeing. This is alongside creating new jobs, boosting tourism and elevating the region’s reputation as a sport and leisure destination.

“Our focus now is on finalising our funding structure, progressing on-site groundworks, which we expect to start before the end of this year and working collaboratively with all partners as we prepare to open to the public in early 2022.”

Fran Rowley, Director, Turley said:

“This is a huge planning milestone and paves the way for, what will be, one of the most innovative and significant leisure attractions in the region”. 

Dates referenced for the commencement of ground works and public opening are subject to the proposed development being referred to the Secretary of State.

For more information please visit https://emergesurf.com/

29 July 2020