Damian Rogers Architecture is hoping to “bring surf to the city” by proposing a $8 million AUD artificial beach and wave pool for the Victoria Harbor in Melbourne. Capable of simulating “surfable” 1.5-meter-high waves, the heated salt-water pool is envisioned as an extension of Central Pier in the Docklands. If built, the pool would be complimented by a beach, encompassing boardwalk, and grass-covered recreation and retail facility.
"It's an area that lots of people go to, but there's not always the experience, so we wanted to create something in the heart of the docklands that's a genuine place that people can go to and enjoy," said Phil Carter, urban and transport planner at Arup, who’s working on the “Surf Park Docklands" proposal with Damian Rogers.
Currently, city residents must drive 30 minutes out of the city to reach the closest surf beach.