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Boscombe Surf Reef |
The artificial surf reef constructed at Boscombe Seafront is Europe’s first and is part of a larger redevelopment scheme to
regenerate and revitalise the area. The reef gives Boscombe beach its own identity, raises the profile of Boscombe and attracts
a large number of visitors on an annual basis.
Where is the artificial surf reef located?
The artificial reef is strategically located between the first two groynes to the east of Boscombe Pier, in front of the
Overstrand complex, giving a wonderful opportunity for watching from the café/restaurant as well as from the beach.
The actual size of the reef takes up approximately one hectare and is sited approximately 225 metres off shore.
What is the surf reef actually built from?
The reef is built from large sand-filled geo-textile bags – some up to 30m in length.
They are extremely strong and the likelihood of damage is very small. Even so, they will be covered by a long guarantee!
A recent Council Economic Impact Assessment has suggested that the reef will create an image value of £10million
per annum resulting from a variety of publications and media interest on a national scale. It would generate a huge stimulus for
equipment retailing, surf training schools, accommodation, drink and food and would create an estimated 60 full-time and 30 part-time jobs.
Do surfers actually spend any money?
Yes, rather a lot! It costs around £500 just to get kitted out for surfing in the first place. Then there are the numerous positive
knock-on effects – tuition costs, accommodation and entertainment, which an economic assessment suggests will mean growth in
small businesses in the area to support surfers and spectators. A recent survey in Cornwall revealed that surfers actually spend 8%
more than other holidaymakers.
What environmental impact will the reef have?
The environmental implications are at worst, neutral. It’s likely that marine life will thrive on
the reef and there will be no damaging effects to the beach. Although our reason for building
the reef is for regeneration and leisure, expert opinion says that it may also help with coastal
defences. The detailed design study will fully answer this question and the results will inform
the application for a FEPA licence for the project. This licence is required for the placement of
materials or articles in tidal waters other than for the primary purpose of their disposal: in this
instance, the geo-textile bags that form the reef.
Source: Bournemouth Borough Council
The term "artificial reef" is really a misnomer since these artificial structures are not actually reefs. However, reefs have been
created for surfing purposes, with the world's first such man-made reef at Cables Beach, Perth, Western Australia. This reef was
constructed of large granite rocks placed in a pyramidal shape to form an appropriate breaking wave form that would suit surfers.
An artificial reef constructed of over 400 massive, geotextile bags (each one larger than a bus) filled with sand was constructed
in 2000 at Narrowneck on the Gold Coast of Queensland, Australia. This artificial reef had two objectives: stabilizing beach
nourishment and improving surfing conditions.
Artificial surfing reefs typically resemble a "submerged breakwater", and proponents have suggested additional benefits beyond improving
surfing conditions. In Hawaii and California, long stretches of coast are subject to powerful waves that crash directly onshore. An artificial
reef situated 150-300 yards offshore would not only create surfing opportunities but, by dissipating wave energy before it strikes the shore,
create safer swimming areas and reduce coastal erosion.
Construction of artificial surfing reefs is a relatively new technology and, worldwide, nations as diverse as England and New Zealand
are discussing building their first projects. However, opposition from environmentalists has slowed approvals. Many environmentalists
argue against coastal modification on multiple grounds, including the notion that coastlines are best left in their natural state. In
part because of arguments for environmental protection, many nations have enacted extensive regulations restricting the alteration
of coastal ecosystems.
Source: Wikipedia
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