McKinney Group has been given the green light for plans to deliver a £60m inland surfing lagoon in Manchester
The plans would see the former container-base site at TraffordCity transformed into an inland surfing lagoon for Greater Manchester.
Alongside the surf lake will be space for a café/restaurant terrace, pop-up beach bars, surf shop, and changing facilities, within an interactive environment with everything from a pump track and fitness zone to a halfpipe/boarding area, and exercise, bouldering and balancing zones.
Powered by Wavegarden the proposed surfing complex will create consistent waves, perfect for beginners, learners and professionals alike to test their skills.
‘Inspire the next generation of surfers and athletes’
Managing director of McKinney Group, Billy McKinney, said: “We’re delighted that Trafford Council has approved our proposals for Modern Surf and are very grateful to local residents for the extraordinary level of support we have received.
“Modern Surf will complement the already excellent leisure-based activities in TraffordCity and help to inspire the next generation of surfers and athletes.
“We hope to create 100 FTE jobs when operational as well as supporting many more during the construction phase.
“Look out for more updates over the coming months!”
The site in TraffordCity will be owned and managed by Peel L&P.
James Whittaker, executive development director at Peel L&P, commented: “We are thrilled to hear that planning permission has been granted for Modern Surf which will bring something unique to the already strong leisure offering.
“Our vision is to be the UK’s number one destination for the retail, leisure and business in a sustainable environment where over the last 25 years we have created over 17,500 jobs and invested over £1.6bn.
“Alongside Therme Manchester, Modern Surf will be another fantastic leisure attraction to TraffordCity that will complement all the surrounding businesses.”
The inland surfing facility is earmarked to be open by 2023.
