Mixed response at public consultation for Dorset surf lagoon

The meeting was held at St Leonards & St Ives Village Hall, where residents were invited to discuss plans for the major development proposal at Brocks Pine in St Leonards.

Developers W H White were represented by James Mallinson, who said: “The consultation has been publicised to around 3,500 residents and we’ve had a very healthy turnout.

Residents attend public consultation for Brocks Pine surf lagoon plans

“We’ve seen more than 300 feedback forms submitted with a mixture of concerns and praises. On the whole, I think people are generally very supportive of the principle and the benefits that it would bring in terms of leisure and for the local economy.

“From conversations I’ve had with residents, I think there’s been a strong recognition that Dorset is historically a holiday surf destination. However, much of that trade is going to Bristol who have a similar wave facility, so this would really help cement Dorset’s position as a top surf spot.

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He added: “One of the big things about this proposal is the Avon Heath Country Park, which will be moved away from the heathland as it is overrun with recreation. Natural England support this as it will help protect Dorset heathlands and provide a fantastic leisure facility for local people.”

“We totally recognise people’s concerns about access and traffic problems, however we have had very positive discussions with National Highways and hope to show this to residents.”

Residents attend public consultation for Brocks Pine surf lagoon plans

The privately funded venture would see the creation of 40 jobs as well as use solar power technology to contribute to the facility’s operation.

Resident Rob Tripp said: “I’m all for it and think it’s a good idea as it’ll bring people to the area. I’m a surfer myself and the fact is that we have to wait for perfect conditions in the sea here and sometimes they never come. This would give us the chance to hone our skills right on our doorstep.

“This lagoon is controlled so it’s also a safe place for different ages to learn. Young people who may be worried about the sea could come to this facility and learn in a safe, controlled environment. I think it’s brilliant.”

• Read more: Surf England backing for lagoon plan 

However, a St Leonards resident drew concerns about noise and light pollution for residents living adjacent to the planned site. They said: “At night, I would worry about the light pollution. Also, noise is a big problem, how noisy would these surf machines be? There is a lot of housing in the area and I think more consideration has to be given for those people.”

An Ashley Heath resident agreed that while traffic and noise management was “important”, the plans are a “fantastic opportunity to attract inward investment and create local jobs.”

Mr Mallinson stated that the lagoon would cater for disabled users, which he described as “hugely important”, and would welcome body and paddleboarders.

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Resident Linda Flood said: “There are pros and cons, I think. Firstly, the Woolsbridge Roundabout is difficult to get across in the morning anyway and I think this would make it worse. I can see there being an accident or two.

“However, the plan itself is lovely. I have no problems with the lagoon at all, my son loves to surf and this will bring a lot of business into the area so I’m happy to see it. As long as it doesn’t take years to build as these things often do, I’d like to see it in my lifetime.”

In order to prevent traffic congestion, developers say that there would be a set number of visitors allowed in the lagoon at a time and this would be enforced by pre-booking only.

Official planning application will be submitted in the “near future” as developers take on board points raised by residents.