New Exmouth water Sports Centre operator announced

Exeter-based developer Grenadier has announced local business, Edge Water Sports, as the new sustainable watersports centre’s first key tenant.

The multi-million-pound, not-for-profit scheme which will see part of Exmouth waterfront transformed into a brand-new water sports facility, was given the green light by East Devon District Council on Tuesday. The centre will enable beach and water-based training and provide changing facilities, alongside an outdoor events space and a selection of eateries, and will offer immediate beach access for all.

Family run Edge Water Sports is the first key tenant announced for the project by Grenadier and will offer a range of activities for people of all ages and abilities including; Kitesurfing, Stand Up Paddle boarding (SUP), Kayaking and even Beach Fit classes.

Exmouth is a recognised water sports destination, with Edge providing kite surfing and offering opportunities for people to complete race training too. Run by World Champion kite surfer Steph Bridge and her family, Edge has been in the area for over 30 years and the new facility will see them relocate from their existing base in Exmouth Marina.

Commenting on the announcement, Edge Head Coach and World Champion kite surfer, Steph Bridge said: “We’ve been looking for a beach location for some time, so when this opportunity came up with Grenadier we jumped at the chance. Exmouth is one of the best locations in the UK for watersports and we’re excited to be part of this superb new facility.”

“We’re looking forward to welcoming visitors and groups of all ages and abilities to enjoy a range of fun activities both in the water and along the beachfront. Between us we have decades of experience in teaching people how to safely enjoy the water and get the most out of their time with us, and we hope that this new facility will encourage even more people to come and try out what’s on offer.”

Peter Quincey, Director of Grenadier, said: “We’re delighted that Edge Water Sports will be operating the centre and it’s great to have such a well-respected local business on board.
“Between them ‘Team Bridge’ have over 35 World and European titles to their name, and their unparalleled knowledge of the water conditions in Exmouth make them the perfect choice for the centre. The development represents an opportunity to create a significant and long-lasting legacy for the area.”

Nigel Jones, RNLI Area Lifesaving Manager for East Devon and Dorset said: “The local volunteers at Exmouth RNLI look forward to working with Edge Water Sports and would welcome any opportunities to assist with the provision of a safe, controlled and effective water-based activity environment from the centre.”

The development will be funded on a not-for-profit basis by Grenadier. The funding will be repaid over time through the rental income. Once the funding has been repaid all future rental income will be used by the Community Interest Company to benefit the community.

“Grenadier welcomes inquiries from local businesses who want to be part of the project to facilitate growth and employment for the area. Many Exmouth based companies have already shown early interest during the consultation events and, with planning now approved, we look forward to other like-minded businesses approaching us about the exciting range of commercial and retail opportunities available.” Quincey added.

Work is expected to begin on site in winter 2019.

For more information, http://watersportscentreexmouth.co.uk