The developer behind artificial surf park Wavegarden Scotland has been given the go-ahead to add food and retail outlets and overnight accommodation to the venue in Edinburgh.
Tartan Leisure Ltd received planning permission for the HUB complex at the old Craigpark Quarry near Ratho, which it is to turn the site in Scotland’s first artificial surfing destination.
Andy Hadden, co-founder of Tartan Leisure, said: “This is a major milestone in our journey to bring this world class surfing and leisure destination to the capital. Importantly, we are supporting local business along the way to help us deliver fantastic amenities, all set in this stunning country park.”
The new planning permission includes a food court, retail outlet, surf school, wellness spa, café, viewing terraces and an observation deck, overlooking the surf. The overnight accommodation will include luxury lodges, glamping pods, accessible wave pods and bothies.
The pods will be provided by Edinburgh-based Armadilla, whose MD Archie Hunter said: “We are delighted to bring our sustainable, high-quality and iconic eco-pods to this landmark new development and providing this accommodation on our home turf makes it extra special. I’m sure guests will find that the entire experience at the Wavegarden Scotland development really offers the wow factor.”
The food court will run as Canteen by Peter Maniam of Lothian-based Rogue Village, which operated a street food market on the roof of Waverley Mall this summer. He will also curate an events programme.
He said: “The Wavegarden Scotland development will become one of the UK’s most forward-thinking, family-friendly venues and we are delighted to develop a unique food destination with the local community at the heart of our plans.”
Wavegarden Cove technology has been used at venues in England and Australia, with facilities to follow in South Korea, Switzerland and Brazil. The Wavegarden Scotland development will create around 130 jobs when it opens in 2022.
