Trends are changing……..instead of traveling to the waves, you can now expect the waves coming to your town for some cool surfing. By 2011, you can indulge in surfing in the middle of an up-and-coming neighborhood. It is reported that six-foot swells are set to break on the Thames at an attraction aiming to tempt the growing ranks of urban surfers. Estimated at £20 million (about $40 million), this first of its kind outdoor artificial surfing machine will try to rival the Atlantic breakers of Devon and Cornwall using cleaned river water. Venture Xtreme project at Silvertown Quays has bagged the outline planning permission, and building work to transform the former grain dock will begin this year. To create a more natural ambiance, an artificial beach with palm trees, boardwalks, and rentable fire-pits and barbecues is planned for post-surf relaxation.
The project is the brainchild of Steve Jones, an adventure sports enthusiast, and is backed by is being backed by David Taylor. Surfers can expect to pay £30 for an hour’s session that will offer at least 10 waves per rider, each rolling more than 100 meters as the swell spreads from the dock to the wide beach. The wave machine can be set to make the surf break left and right from a central peak, allowing surfers to ride comfortably without fear of collision. Jones plans to tame this most extreme sport and make it as readily available as a game of squash after work. He is also planning a £350m center in Rotherham with a standing wave, an ice wall for climbers, and artificial rapids for white water canoeing. Loads of more fun to look forward to London.
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