Government report backs Swansea's billion pound Tidal Lagoon and leisure complex
Plans for a £1.3bn (US$1.6bn, €1.5bn) tidal lagoon in Welsh city Swansea have been backed by a government-commissioned independent review, with a number of conclusions suggesting further development across the UK if the project is a success.
The innovative renewable energy scheme, which will be the world’s first tidal lagoon to generate clean electricity, has a large leisure component – including an oyster hatchery attraction and watersport centre designed by FaulknerBrowns.
The report makes more than 30 recommendations and conclusions in delivering a tidal lagoon and bringing maximum benefit to the UK, including a competitive tender process for large scale tidal lagoons, the establishment of a Tidal Power Authority and that local economic regeneration would follow a tidal lagoon.
The leisure aspects of the Swansea project are seen as being key to the overall proposition.
Inspired by traditional fishing warehouses and boathouses, the 4,000sq m (43,056sq ft) building for the watersport and hatchery will include sports facilities, changing rooms and boat storage. The project will also feature an eco-focused offshore visitor centre, with exhibition space, a lecture theatre, a café and educational facilities.
Juice Architects has led the design of the visitor centre, working alongside Evolve, LDA Design, Atkins Global and Costain. The design is based on oysters, with the structure offering the appearance of a series of shells.
It is hoped if the Swansea project is a success, a network of lagoons could be set up around the UK coast, harnessing clean energy from the sea's tides.
Swansea Tidal Lagoon visitor attraction