DEVELOPERS have submitted plans for a "world-class" inland surf lagoon next to a Dorset country park.

Dorset-based W. H. White has tabled proposals with Dorset Council for Brocks Pine, just off the A31 in St Leonards.

The scheme presents a "once in a generation opportunity for Dorset to cement its reputation as a surf destination", the applicant said.

The plans also include "significant improvements" to Avon Heath Country Park.

Dorset Echo: Artist sketch of plans for Avon Heath Country Park. Picture: W. H. WhiteArtist sketch of plans for Avon Heath Country Park. Picture: W. H. White

Surfing England, the national governing Body for surfing, is supportive of the opportunity that the development could provide.

Ben Powis, chief executive of Surfing England, said: “We are seeing an explosion of interest in surf lagoons and it’s amazing to see the UK taking a real lead in investment and deployment of this incredible new technology.

"The south coast has a vibrant surf scene and having world class waves on tap will help grow the local surfing community, provide training space for future Olympic and Paralympic athletes and open up surfing as a sport and lifestyle to a whole new audience.”

A public consultation took place in recent months, including an exhibition event at St Leonards & St Ives Village Hall in Braeside Road on September 9.

W. H. White said of 512 residents that responded, 62 per cent supported the idea of building a surfing lagoon at Brocks Pine, while 66 per cent supported the proposed improvements at Avon Heath Country Park and new greenspace.

 

Dorset Echo: Artist sketch of the development proposals for Avon Heath Country Park. Picture: W. H. WhiteArtist sketch of the development proposals for Avon Heath Country Park. Picture: W. H. White

The developer controls the land on either side of Brocks Pine and Dorset Council control Avon Heath Country Park. The local authority will continue to own and operate the country park.

A statement from W.H. White said: "The exciting vision for Brocks Pine would bring investment and job creation supporting key local economic sectors most impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic.

"Over 60 per cent of respondents to the consultation recognised the importance of the planned investment for the local tourism and hospitality sector.

"Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP), the group responsible for driving the economic growth of Dorset, have also confirmed support for the proposals."

The application is live on Dorset Council's online planning portal, with residents able to make formal comments in support and objection.