Plans submitted for new Hampshire holiday park – with an inflatable assault course

Plans have been submitted for a new water park and sports centre which would be under an hour’s drive away from Portsmouth.
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Baca Architects is planning to build the leisure complex at Hollybush Lakes, a 16-hectare site near Aldershot, on the site of a former scrap metal breakers yard and landfill site.

The new development would include a two-storey aquatic sports centre, with activities including kayaking, boating and an inflatable aqua assault course.

Visitors can also stay in one of 21 floating lodges, which will be perfect for families as well as fishermen looking for some peace and quiet.

Picture: Baca ArchitectsPicture: Baca Architects
Picture: Baca Architects

Other features planned are a restaurant with elevated views over the lakes, a state-of-the-art gym and meeting rooms to be used by schools and community groups.

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A new equestrian centre will include indoor and outdoor schooling facilities together with stabling, and resident horses will graze on a newly-planted wildflower meadow.

Both the equestrian and aquatic centres will also have bio solar green roofs.

The new equestrian centre. Picture: Baca ArchitectsThe new equestrian centre. Picture: Baca Architects
The new equestrian centre. Picture: Baca Architects

As part of the scheme the Blackwater Valley footpath, which runs through the area, is being reopened to the public.

Although the site is next to the A331, it is designed to be car-free so guests will be encouraged to arrive by foot, bicycle or via the nearby Ash Vale or North Camp train stations.

Speaking about the plans, Richard Coutts, principal of Baca Architects, said: ‘Our scheme represents the opportunity to return Hollybush Lakes back to nature for public enjoyment and ecological enhancement while creating an exemplar leisure destination in the south of England for people wanting a serene, yet active, retreat into nature.’

Here's what the new Hollybush Lakes site could look like. Picture: Baca ArchitectsHere's what the new Hollybush Lakes site could look like. Picture: Baca Architects
Here's what the new Hollybush Lakes site could look like. Picture: Baca Architects

It is hoped the plans will be approved by the council soon, with work taking place by next year.

A new website has been created so residents can find out more about the plans – you can view it here.

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