Sydney to build new $26.5 million surf break
Already home to some of the best beaches in the world, Sydney is about to see another beach join the illustrious likes of Bondi, Manly and Maroubra.
The only difference? This one’s entirely artificial.
Urbnsurf Sydney have submitted a proposal for a 3.2 hectare, artificial surf break at Sydney Olympic Park, which will comprise of a lagoon and a wave machine.
The idea intends to make the beach more accessible to Western Sydney residents who currently face quite a hike when headed to Sydney’s natural beaches.
Wave Park Group founder and executive chairman Andrew Ross said this was an effective means of deal with overcrowding at Sydney’s popular surf spots.
Mr Ross said there will be a range of conditions, stating, “Waves will range from up to 1.7 metre high, pitching waves, that are designed for the highest levels of performance surfing, down to 0.6 metre high, rolling white water waves, which are ideal for beginner surfers.”
But it’s not going to come cheap.
The new surf part is expected to cost $26.5 million. That being said the project is expected to inject more than $250 million to the Sydney region in tourism revenue.
Stuart Ayres, the Minister for Sport for New South Wales, hailed the new proposals as big win for the 200,000 surfers of Sydney, as well as being a vote of confidence for tourism in the west side of the Sydney which is undergoing significant levels of growth.
And this is by no means an idea that’s exclusive to Sydney.
These artificial surf breaks have been heralded as the future of the sport, and a range of similar waves parks are being planned around the world including one in Melbourne, Victoria; Austin, Texas; Munich, Germany and another in Bristol, England.
So, what do you think about the proposal? Do you think an artificial surf break is a good idea, or would the money be better invested elsewhere?
Let us know in the comments below!
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