Any avid readers to the Snowdon.com blog might have remembered a feature over seven months ago concerning the new Wavegarden to be built in Snowdonia. Well, those plans have moved one step closer after the council gave it a unanimous green light in the past week.
Surf Snowdonia has been gathering momentum in the public eye since it was first revealed last September with many lauding it as one of the best projects to come to the region in many years. When you consider just how much scheme will give back to the local community, it’s little wonder why it’s been the word on the lips on many Snowdonian people .
An estimated 100 workers will be needed during the construction stage of the project with 60 necessary to work during the day once the site is fully up and running. It goes some way to offering more opportunities for employment after Dolgrarrog Aluminium (the location of the new Wavegarden) closed in 2007, resulting in the loss of 170 jobs.
So, what is Surf Snowdonia and what’s the big fuss? Wavegarden technology creates simulated waves, meaning that surfers can practise their skills in an environment where they may usually not be able to. Why spend a chilly morning on a North Wales beach for the off chance of catching a wave when you can just go somewhere where you’re sure of ideal conditions and all the amenities you could need?
On-site, you can expect a lagoon, water slide, wakeboard facilities, lodges to stay in, restaurants and other facilities for youngsters. A 250-space parking lot will also be available to those travelling to the location which is said to have been the subject of a seven-figure deal.
Conwy Adventure Leisure are the company behind the coup and their managing director, Steve Davies, had this to say: ‘We have been working hard to set our plans for the UK’s first Wavegarden in motion and are delighted to announce the next stage of the journey.”
Though initial plans all pointed towards a 2014 grand opening, financial wrangling and approval chasing means that the park will now not open until Summer 2015 but work is due to begin this month.
“surfboard” by www.flickr.com/photos/bichuas
License: creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0
