Work is under way on a Dundee watersports centre, despite fears about its impact on the surrounding area.
Foxlake Adventures is due to open a wakeboarding course in the City Quay this summer, having been granted planning permission by Dundee City Council earlier this year.
The local authority has confirmed the project is officially under way.
Last week fencing appeared around paving on the quay’s West Victoria Dock Street across from the Apex, with construction teams seen carrying out work.
A spokesman for the council said: “These are setting-up works for the site compound in preparation for the establishment of the wakeboarding centre.”
It comes despite a formal objection from the centre’s soon-to-be West Victoria Dock Street neighbours, the Apex Hotel, which said the development would “destroy the uninterrupted Quayside views” enjoyed by its guests.
The hotel also said there was inadequate parking to meet the needs of the facility at City Quay, and that it would lead to noise pollution that would impact on both guests and local residents.
Brett Davidge, general manager of Apex City Quay Hotel and Spa, said: “Our position on the project was made clear during the planning application process and remains unchanged.”
Dunbar-based outdoor activity company, Foxlake, hopes to offer wakeboarding lessons and group experiences and several ancillary outdoor activities.
The centre would also feature a rope-themed adventure course across the water in addition to the wakeboarding activities.
The planning application for the site was officially lodged by the council, with Foxlake named as the tenants.
The Victoria Docks base will include support accommodation, a harbour gangway, west harbour access pontoons and two wakeboard tows.
Wakeboarding is spectator-orientated and it is thought the centre will attract large crowds for competition events.
A spokesman for Foxlake Adventures was not available for comment.
