Building work at Ilfracombe Watersports Centre has been progressing, with the facility’s buildings now nestled in their home at Larkstone Cove and finishing touches to the internal fixtures and fittings being completed.

The next phase of the project will see the construction of a sea wall and slipway at the cove. Components which include uniquely modelled seawall blocks are set to be delivered to the site next month.  Contractors will need to wait for spring tides before work can commence and are set to get under way in early January 2023, with work taking approximately eight weeks, weather and tide permitting.

The centre is set for completion by the end of March 2023. When complete it will provide new homes for three local watersports clubs, Ilfracombe Pilot Gig Club, Y-Sail and Ilfracombe Canoe Club.

It will include community facilities for the clubs including storage for boats, a slipway providing safe and easy access to the water within a given tidal range, disabled access and facilities, and a café with stunning views of the harbour.

Lead Member for Economic Development and Strategic Planning Policy, Councillor Malcolm Prowse, says: “I am delighted that work on Ilfracombe’s new watersports hub is nearing completion. Although there is still work to be done, the end of the project is now in sight and we can begin to prepare for the clubs and cafe operator to move into their new home. It is set to be a real asset for the town and community.”

Lead Member for the Environment at North Devon Council, Councillor Netti Pearson, says: “This is a challenging site and I have always been concerned about the environmental impact. Pearce Construction, however, are doing a fantastic job and it is so pleasing to see the work has been done in a way that is sympathetic with the centre’s surroundings. I am looking forward to seeing the centre and Larkstone Cove in use and being enjoyed by our wonderful watersports clubs and the wider community.”