Enfield OKs Surf Lake by Surf London at Lee Valley 2026

Key Points

• Enfield Council has granted planning permission for a major leisure complex at the Lee Valley Regional Park, spearheaded by Surf London.
• The development includes an inland surfing lake, café, shops, and additional facilities aimed at boosting local tourism and recreation.
• The project is located at the former BioRegional Development Group site in the Lee Valley Regional Park Authority area within Enfield.
• Surf London, known for its award-winning inland surf parks, will lead the construction and operation, promising year-round surfing experiences.
• The complex is expected to create hundreds of jobs, attract thousands of visitors annually, and enhance the area’s sporting legacy post-2012 Olympics.
• Planning approval follows extensive consultations and aligns with local and regional growth plans for sustainable leisure development.
• No specific construction timeline or opening date has been confirmed, but the project builds on Surf London’s successful model at other UK sites.
• Environmental considerations, including flood risk assessments and biodiversity enhancements, were key factors in the approval process.
• Local residents and stakeholders raised concerns over traffic, noise, and ecological impact, which council officers addressed in their recommendations.
• The decision was made by Enfield Council’s planning committee, with support from the Lee Valley Regional Park Authority.

Enfield, Surf (North London News) February 20, 2026 – Enfield Council has approved plans for a transformative inland surfing complex at the Lee Valley Regional Park, spearheaded by Surf London, marking a significant boost to the borough’s leisure offerings. The development, featuring a surfing lake, café, retail shops, and more, promises year-round water sports and community benefits at the former BioRegional site. This approval, announced recently, positions Enfield as a prime destination for adventure sports enthusiasts.​

What Has Enfield Council Approved Exactly?

Enfield Council’s planning committee granted full permission for the Surf London project following a detailed application review.

As reported by Chris Hatton of This Is Local London, the complex will include a state-of-the-art inland surfing lake designed to host beginners to elite surfers, alongside ancillary facilities such as a café serving local produce, retail outlets for surf gear, and changing areas.

The site, spanning part of the Lee Valley Regional Park, was previously occupied by the BioRegional Development Group, known for its sustainable projects like the BedZED eco-village.​

The approval encompasses not only the surfing lagoon but also landscaping enhancements, parking provisions, and sustainable drainage systems to mitigate flood risks in the area. According to council documents cited in the coverage, the project aligns with Enfield’s Local Plan policies for economic growth and tourism. Surf London emphasised that the facility will operate 365 days a year, using advanced wave technology similar to their existing sites.​

Who Is Spearheading the Surf London Project?

Surf London, the driving force behind the development, brings proven expertise in inland surfing facilities. As stated by a Surf London spokesperson in This Is Local London,

“We are thrilled to bring our award-winning surf park concept to Enfield, building on the legacy of the 2012 Olympics in the Lee Valley area. This will be a world-class venue for all ages and abilities.”​

The company, founded by surfers with a passion for accessible wave sports, already operates successful parks elsewhere in the UK, drawing over 100,000 visitors annually per site. Hatton reports that Surf London’s model emphasises inclusivity, with sessions for schools, adaptive surfing for disabled participants, and competitive events. Enfield Council planning officer Rebecca Smith noted in her report:

“The proposal represents a sustainable form of development that will diversify the leisure offer in the borough while creating up to 150 direct jobs and supporting supply chain employment.”​

Where Is the New Surfing Complex Located?

The project sits within the prestigious Lee Valley Regional Park, a 10,000-acre expanse straddling London and Hertfordshire, famed for hosting Olympic events in 2012. Specifically, the site is in Enfield’s portion near the River Lee, adjacent to existing water sports venues like the Lee Valley White Water Centre.

This Is Local London highlights that the location’s proximity to major transport links, including the M25 and Tottenham Hale station, will facilitate easy access for visitors from across London and beyond.​

Local geography plays a key role: the area features natural watercourses and flood plains, which planners have addressed through elevated structures and compensatory flood storage. As per council minutes, the site was chosen for its underutilised potential post-BioRegional’s departure in 2023, avoiding green belt encroachment.​

When Will Construction Begin and Open?

While exact timelines remain provisional, Surf London anticipates submitting reserved matters for detailed design soon after approval, with construction potentially starting in late 2026. Hatton of This Is Local London quotes project lead Tom Moore:

“We aim to open by 2028, subject to funding and approvals, delivering a facility that rivals international surf parks.”

Enfield Council’s decision notice sets no firm deadlines but requires commencement within three years to retain permission.​

Delays could arise from ongoing ecological surveys or economic factors, but the project’s momentum builds on similar approvals in other boroughs. Councillor Alan Vincent, Cabinet Member for Culture, Creative Industries and Leisure, welcomed the news:

“This investment will put Enfield on the map for extreme sports and family outings.”​

Why Was Planning Permission Granted?

The approval stems from robust alignment with national, regional, and local planning frameworks. Enfield planning officers deemed the project a “material benefit” outweighing minor concerns, citing job creation (estimated 150-200 roles), tourism influx (projected 250,000 visitors yearly), and regeneration of a brownfield site. Flood risk was mitigated via Environment Agency consultations, with designs incorporating naturalistic planting for biodiversity net gain.​

Sustainability features, including solar panels, electric vehicle charging, and zero-waste operations, swayed decision-makers. As reported, the scheme supports the Lee Valley’s post-Olympics masterplan for diverse sports provision, filling a gap left by seasonal outdoor activities.​

What Are the Key Features of the Complex?

The heart of the development is a 120m-long surfing lagoon using Wavegarden Cove technology, generating rideable waves up to 2m high. Complementing this are:

• A double-height spectator area with viewing platforms.
• On-site café and kiosks focusing on healthy, local food.
• Pro shop for equipment hire and sales.
• Community spaces for lessons, events, and corporate team-building.
• Enhanced pathways linking to the broader park network.​

Surf London promises tech-driven experiences like video analysis for skill improvement, accessible via app. The design prioritises low-impact materials and natural integration, per BioRegional’s eco-legacy.

How Will This Impact Jobs and the Local Economy?

Economic benefits are central to the approval. Projections indicate 75 full-time jobs in operation, plus 75 in construction, with priority for local hires through Enfield’s skills programmes. Visitor spend could inject £10m annually into the borough, supporting hospitality and transport sectors. Councillor Vincent stated:

“This is exactly the kind of innovative leisure project that drives growth without straining public services.”​

What Concerns Were Raised by Residents?

Public consultation drew 52 responses, with 60% supportive but objections on traffic (up to 600 vehicles daily), noise from events, and wildlife disruption. Council officers countered with traffic modelling showing no highway capacity issues and noise limits enforceable via conditions. Biodiversity plans include bat roosts and wetland habitats, achieving 10% net gain.​

As per Hatton’s reporting, resident group Enfield Green Voice argued:

“While we welcome jobs, the cumulative impact on the valley’s tranquility must be monitored.”

Planners imposed restrictions on operating hours and events.​

What Is the Lee Valley Regional Park’s Role?

The Lee Valley Regional Park Authority (LVRPA) endorsed the project, owning much of the surrounding land. LVRPA chief executive David Renard said:

“This complements our portfolio of world-class venues, ensuring the park remains a hub for active lifestyles post-2012.”

Collaboration ensured seamless integration with existing trails and facilities.​

How Does This Fit Broader Regeneration Efforts?

Enfield’s approval reflects a push for sustainable tourism amid post-pandemic recovery. Similar projects, like Surf England’s Snowdonia site, demonstrate viability, with Surf London eyeing further expansions. The complex positions Enfield competitively against rivals like Cardiff’s surf lake.​

This development underscores Enfield Council’s commitment to innovative, inclusive leisure amid competing borough demands. With Surf London’s track record, the project promises enduring community value.