Watersports centre set for summer opening

Ilfracombe’s new watersports hub is on track for a summer opening after passing a major milestone.

The watersports centre at Larkstone Cove has reached practical completion, with builders Pearce Construction handing the keys to North Devon Council. An official opening for the centre is set to take place in mid- July.

Before then, contractors Gunite will be completing work on the sea wall and Pearce Construction will be removing their site compound. The centre’s café, The Lime Kiln, will also be fitted out and once complete later this month, visitors will be able to enjoy its delicious menu while taking in breathtaking views of Ilfracombe harbour. The watersports hub will provide new homes for three local clubs - Ilfracombe Pilot Gig Club, Y-Sail and Ilfracombe Canoe Club - who will be moving into their new home before the official opening.

The new facility will allow the clubs to extend their memberships to the wider community and offer taster events to local residents and visitors. It includes community facilities for the clubs including storage for boats, a slipway providing safe and easy access to the water and disabled access and facilities.

The wider community will be also able to pre-book watersports activities through commercial operators based at the centre. Lead Member for Regeneration, Economic Development and Planning, Councillor Malcolm Prowse, says: “We are delighted to have reached practical completion for the watersports centre, which I am sure will be a real asset for Ilfracombe. A great deal of hard work has gone into this project and alongside our officers, Pearce Construction have done an incredible job in managing the more complex elements such as the sea wall and slipway and bringing this site to fruition.”

Lead member for Coastal Communities, Councillor Malcolm Wilkinson, says: “The watersports centre is looking fantastic nestled in Larkstone Cove and will offer visitors stunning views across the harbour. There are a few small works to complete before the official opening in July, but we are very much looking forward to seeing the centre in use and being enjoyed by the watersports clubs and the wider community this summer and into the future.”