Huge new water attraction set to be ‘first of its kind in UK’ – with lagoon, skate park and holiday lodges
A NEW attraction set to open in the UK will be the “first of its kind” – with other similar parks in Brazil and Australia.
The Seahive, a huge water attraction, is hoping to open near Deal in Kent at Betteshanger Park as the first surfing wellness resort.
The main feature of the attraction would be a huge lagoon and surf pool, where both beginners and experts can practise.
Waves will range from 50cm to 2m, with classes for surfers as well.
There will be more than 20 different wave types ranging from 50cm to 2m, so beginners will be able to get classes while more experienced surfers can book sessions.
A skate park for skateboards, bikes and scooters would also be onsite, along with a wellness area and spa.
There would also be a clubhouse with restaurants and dining areas, as well as a bar and lounge.
Guests would be able to stay overnight too – there are plans to build 15 onsite holiday lodges.
This is alongside the 120-bed luxury hotel with a spa, gym and restaurant.
The plans for the park were first announced last year.
However, there have been local complaints about the construction of the area, saying it would affect the wildlife, especially when it comes to Lizard Orchids and Turtle Doves.
The park developers have since addressed the issue.
This includes “moving 600 of the 3,000 Lizard Orchids to another area to manage them,” as well as “nine acres of new land for Turtle doves”.
They also said they would be introducing a “wildlife warden” dedicated to protecting the area.
The website explains: “We believe we have a solution to secure the future of the park, its wildlife and all the value that both bring to the local community.”
Ticket prices and an official opening date are yet to be announced.
The resort hoped to open by 2025 although this may be delayed while waiting for further planning approval.
Seahive founder Jim Storey previously explained that despite Deal being near the sea, there were very few surfing attractions.
He previously said: “Kent is not renowned for its surfing at all, in fact, a lot of people who love surfing drive six hours to Cornwall or hop on a flight somewhere abroad.”
Others on social media have praised the attraction.
One person wrote: “As someone who actually lives in the immediate area I think this is an amazing idea.
“We love Betteshanger Park, we use it all the time and having seen the plans I think it will be a brilliant addition to this corner of East Kent.”
Another said: “This looks awesome!! What a first for Kent.”
Betteshanger Park is already home to The Lamp Room, a large kitchen and bar for families and the Kent Mining Museum.
Outdoor activities include biking, assault courses, archery and orienteering, with stag does, school trips and birthday parties often visiting.
The park is also just five minutes from Deal, a popular seaside town.
It is home to both Walmer Castle and Deal Castle, built by Henry VIII, as well as the award-winning Rose Hotel.
Trains to Deal from London take around two hours, leaving from London St Pancras.