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The project

What we’re proposing.

A clear picture of the plans for Surf Side at Hove Lagoon — and where the project is today.

Overview

Surf Side at a glance.

Proposed · in development · subject to planning. Nothing here is approved, consented or guaranteed.

Two surf machinesTwo proposed FlowRider® Double surf machines on the lagoon, for beginners through to experienced riders.
Existing watersportsWakeboarding, stand-up paddleboarding and canoeing continue as part of the lagoon.
Wing surfingA new activity we intend to introduce, with coached sessions.
CoachingPlanned programmes for children (from around six, subject to requirements), beginners, adults, families and schools.
ClubhouseA proposed two-storey building of approximately 20m × 11m with a large first-floor balcony, changing facilities, toilets, retail, café, bar and restaurant.
Food & drinkAll-day hospitality overlooking the lagoon — open to everyone, not just people on the water.
Community & membershipA membership model built around belonging, plus school, club and community programmes.
JobsExpected to create at least 50 new local jobs across hospitality, watersports, coaching, retail, operations and management.
Concept render of the proposed layout by day

The clubhouse

Current concept

20m × 11mProposed footprint
2Storeys
1st-floorBalcony over the lagoon
SolarRoof generation where feasible
Changing facilitiesToiletsSurf & watersports retailCaféBarRestaurantViewing balconyFlat roof

Project journey

Vision → Opening.

No dates are shown until they’re confirmed.

  1. CompleteVision

    Imagining the next chapter of Hove Lagoon — surf, watersports, hospitality and community in one place.

  2. We are hereDesign

    Developing the site layout, the surf machines, the clubhouse and the experience.

  3. UpcomingConsultation

    Listening to local residents, users of the lagoon, clubs, schools and stakeholders.

  4. UpcomingPlanning

    Submitting proposals through the planning process.

  5. UpcomingDevelopment

    Building the clubhouse, installing the surf machines and preparing the lagoon.

  6. UpcomingOpening

    Welcoming our first members, families and visitors.

Sustainability

Our ambitions.

These are ambitions and areas we’re investigating — not confirmed measures. We won’t publish carbon claims we can’t evidence.

AmbitionSolar generationWe intend to use the flat clubhouse roof for solar generation where feasible.
AmbitionEnergy efficiencyInvestigating efficient building services and lower-carbon energy options.
AmbitionResponsible designA building that respects its seafront setting and the lagoon's heritage.
AmbitionLocal suppliersAn ambition to work with Sussex suppliers, producers and businesses.
AmbitionOperating practicesExploring sustainable operating practices across food, waste and water.
AmbitionLocal participationEncouraging people to walk, cycle and use the lagoon regularly.

FAQ

Your questions.

All FAQs →
What is Surf Side?

Surf Side is our proposal for the next chapter of Hove Lagoon: a watersports, leisure and hospitality destination built around surfing, the lagoon's existing watersports, coaching, food and drink, families and community. It is a place to surf, play and connect — and you don't have to surf to belong here.

Where is Surf Side?

At Hove Lagoon, on Kingsway at the western end of the Brighton & Hove seafront.

What is being proposed?

Two surf machines on the lagoon, the continuation of wakeboarding, paddleboarding and canoeing, the introduction of wing surfing, expanded coaching, and a new two-storey clubhouse with changing facilities, retail, a café, bar and restaurant and a first-floor balcony overlooking the water. All of this is proposed and subject to planning.

When will Surf Side open?

We haven't announced an opening date. The project is still being developed and is subject to planning. Register for updates and we'll let you know as soon as we can.

Has planning permission been granted?

No — not yet. Surf Side is a proposal and is subject to planning. We'll share updates on the project page and in our news.

How many jobs could be created?

The project is expected to create at least 50 new local jobs across hospitality, watersports, coaching, retail, operations, maintenance, events and management.

Join the first wave.

Register your interest in becoming one of our first members.

Join the first wave →Read the FAQ