Congratulations to Lost Shore Surf Resort in Edinburgh for winning the highly coveted Judges’ Special Recognition Award at The Herald Property Awards, as well as the Geotechnical Award at the Scottish Civil Engineering Awards 2025.
Home to Europe’s largest Wavegarden Cove, Lost Shore Surf Resort has redefined leisure and tourism in Scotland. The panel praised the project as a “breathtaking feat of engineering and sustainable regeneration” — a first for Scotland, and a landmark achievement for Europe’s surf and leisure scene.
Designed to have a positive impact on both people and the planet, the resort was built on a former quarry beside the Union Canal. The project transforms a neglected brownfield site by restoring wetlands, woodlands, and grasslands — while developing less than half of the land.
Due to the challenging geotechnical conditions of the former quarry, a special construction method was required for the surf lagoon. Before laying the foundations, the ground was stabilized with a temporary backfill. The foundations were then reinforced with a T-shaped structure to increase stability. This design prevents subsidence and ensures the smooth operation of the surf lagoon, while avoiding the use of more than 1,200 piles that would otherwise have been required.
The resort operates on 100% renewable energy, and its waves are powered by Wavegarden Cove technology, which consumes only 0.3–1 kW per wave depending on size and power. Water for the lagoon comes from the canal, is treated on site, and returned cleaner—helping to improve canal health.
As the largest investment in Scottish sporting infrastructure since the 2014 Commonwealth Games, Lost Shore plays a key role in local regeneration. It is expected to attract more than 200,000 visitors annually, create over 130 jobs, and boost the local economy by around £18 million per year. Beyond surfing, the resort offers wellness activities, green spaces, and community facilities that bring long-term social and economic benefits to the region.
