WakeClubCologne: An XXL construction project

WakeClubCologne is a special project. It has not only presented us with challenges due to its extreme dimensions, which we have mastered with a lot of heart and soul and creative solutions. It has also shown us once again that passion for the cause, absolute will, conviction and perseverance always pay off in the end.

Just like our customers, we had the highest expectations of ourselves. Our team did an incredible job and today we can say: We did it! After many years of hard work, the WakeClubCologne mega-project has completed successfully and promises a unique wakeboarding experience not only for water sports fans from Germany, but from all over the world.

An ambitious project from the heart of Cologne

Our customer André van den Höövel is a real Cologne boy who is very much connected to his hometown. His goal was to upgrade the area around Cologne with a wakepark to make it more attractive to people and to offer them a modern and extraordinary location for making sports or spending their free time. For this he was planning two large 6-tower Wakeparx facilities, a 2-tower facility and a huge beach area. As a location the Rather See was chosen. The former gravel pit needed development as it had been struggling with littering and unauthorized use in recent times.

WakeClub Cologne © Daniel Pleuser

Big, bigger, WakeClubCologne

When our client told us about his vision, we knew right away: This is going to be a mega project! The ideas for the facility were huge, so it was clear that the construction site would take enormous dimensions. And it did. However, before the construction work could begin, there was a lot to be done: getting in contact with the authorities, applying for various permits, which involved long waiting times, working on preparation measures to make the site usable at all and so on. 

This included disposing of waste, debris, and rubbish, as well as setting up fences to protect and improve access to the area. In addition, vegetation had to be removed in specific areas, all while adhering to environmental conservation regulations. This put our client, his project partners, and us under constant time pressure, requiring us to adjust construction activities accordingly. This is also part of project development: scheduling construction phases to adapt to evolving conditions.

Our clients’ YouTube construction documentary provides insights into the project and our excellent collaboration.

Highest demands, many challenges

The workload and the associated efforts of the construction preparations were immense, but together with our client we persevered and finally managed to realize the construction! The centerpiece of WakeClubCologne consists of two large 6-tower full-size facilities and a System 2.0 setup. Our clients’ vision was to have all three systems up and running at the same time, in order to offer visitors the best possible experience from the first day on. Therefore the construction of the facilities did take place all at the same time.

Due to the sheer size of the area, any movement on the site was inherently time-consuming. Additionally, the unusually deep lake posed not only the need for clever technical solutions but also required a significant amount of manpower. The installation of the anchor plates on the lake’s bottom already took a month and a half because even slight movements can have disastrous consequences in great water depths. All plates had to be perfectly aligned on top of each other to securely install the towers and anchors. The entire project demanded the utmost concentration and diligence from our team of mechanics and divers.

Throughout the entire project development and construction phase, we remained true to our high standards. The wakeboard facilities at WakeClubCologne are based on advanced Wakeparx technology, and as such, they are at the cutting edge of modern technology. In addition to the main building with a terrace and a beach bar, the client also constructed two starting houses for the wakeboard facilities.

Recreation and fun for people of all ages

Not only was the construction of the full-size facilities an XXL project, but also the development of the surrounding infrastructure. The beach area also required considerable effort. The vision included a large beach area to be created by heaping up sand. At 200 metres long and 35 metres wide, the sandy beach and sunbathing lawn now offer space for up to 5000 people and can be used for swimming and fun.

Whether it’s families with children, singles, couples, school classes, dedicated athletes or people seeking recreation – the WakeClubCologne offers a cross-generational leisure experience that appeals to people with varying interests. Water sports enthusiasts get their money’s worth here just as much as people who just want to sunbathe on the beach, relax and enjoy a few snacks at the beach bar. 

The creation of parking spaces was a huge construction task in itself, as the site had a slope. It first had to be brought to an even level and consequently filled up. Two car parks with a total of 550 parking spaces have now been created so that visitors arriving by car can easily find a parking space.

Potential to be a new highlight cable in Germany

WakeClubCologne is more than just a leisure location. The cable park is attractive not only to people from the surrounding area, but also to water sports enthusiasts from all over Germany and all over  the world. It has the potential to attract many visitors every year, which benefits the development of the location as such. 

The location is particularly well connected to the city centre of Cologne. With public transportation, one can quickly reach the Rather See from the city. The location, therefore, represents a unique asset of the site. We are delighted to have played a significant role in making our client’s dream come true and we are confident that WakeClubCologne will have a positive impact on the Rather See area in the long run.

When the going gets tough, the tough get going.

Our client faced a lot of skepticism during the planning period, but he persevered with unwavering confidence and deep conviction and put his plans into reality. We are happy and proud that he trusted us to handle a project of this magnitude with him and his project partners. Even in difficult times, we stood by our client, gave our all – and we would do it again, because we are aware that building a Wakepark is no trivial matter. 

If you are planning to build a wakepark and need competent support, we are the right partner. We don’t just provide advice; we accompany you through every phase, even when the waters get rough.

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