The surfing hotspot in abandoned rock quarry
IT is perhaps the last place that you would expect to find a surfer’s paradise.
But a £55million beach resort is to be created on the outskirts of Scotland’s capital city – complete with its own artificial wave machine.
Derelict Craigpark Quarry, near the village of Ratho, will soon be converted into Wavegarden, a surf park where waves up to six-and-ahalf feet high will be generated.
The site – which will also have a restaurant, retail outlet, surf school and wellness spa – will be funded in part by £26million backing from the state-owned Scottish National Investment Bank (SNIB).
In total, 45 lenders and local busiSNIB’s nesses have supported the project, including OakNorth Bank which provided a £25.2million loan, and the BAE Systems Pension Fund, which will purchase the park through a sale-and-lease agreement once construction is complete.
The project promises to bring at least 100 jobs to the area and attract more tourism as well as improve the biodiversity of the post-industrial site.
Sue Webber, Conservative MSP for Lothian, said: ‘The Wavegarden facility is a genuinely innovative proposal that promises to bring jobs and much-needed redevelopment to Ratho.
‘This project offers real opportunities for the economic growth focused on local communities that ought to be the priority for public investment, so I welcome the backing, along with the private funding that is already in place.’
The huge grant from the bank was approved because it aligns with its aim to invest in projects that will enable regeneration and improve the environment for local communities.
Wavegarden is scheduled to open in the summer of 2024, providing inland surfing all year round and allowing people to practise and learn the sport.
SNIB director Susan Campbell said: ‘This is an exciting, innovative, and ambitious project. The bank’s backing will regenerate a derelict site, increase access to the natural environment, help to restore biodiversity and stimulate tourism.
‘Once complete, Wavegarden Scotland will provide a world-class outdoor facility, enabling important health and wellbeing benefits as well as a nationally important leisure facility.’
Two years ago, the initial planning application receive 80 complaints – with one particular concern being that the park would attract stag and hen parties to the area.
Andy Hadden, founder of developer Tartan Leisure, said that Wavegarden will be a ‘dynamic leisure destination, whether you are in or out of the water’.
Mr Hadden added: ‘Having the backing of 45 local entrepreneurs and international shareholders – including Promethean Investments LLP and Murray Capital – combined with the incredible support from the Scottish National Investment Bank, OakNorth and BAE Systems Pension Fund, has created what we believe is the optimum financial structure for this landmark destination.’
‘Exciting, innovative and ambitious’