Work has begun on the construction of a new Seashore Village and activity park in Felixstowe.
The Seashore Village will feature 27 traditional-style beach huts, provided by East Suffolk Council, as well as a single-storey accessible hut, built from self-insulating panels and capable of being split into smaller rooms or pods for hire.
The site will be entirely re-landscaped, with ramp access installed from Sea Road and the Prom, where new fully accessible public conveniences will also be added and open year-round.
Further improvement will also be made to the surrounding South Seafront area, following the relocation and renovation of the ‘Trim Trail’, with the addition of a new activity park, set to include a climbing wall, concrete table tennis tables, pétanque piste, accessible picnic benches, chess tables and an outdoor space for workouts.
The creation of the public spaces will be made possible by funding generated by the sale of the huts.
Cllr Craig Rivett, East Suffolk’s Deputy Leader and cabinet member for Economic Development said: “We are committed to improving facilities and increasing tourism opportunities in East Suffolk.
“The South Seafront has undergone significant redevelopment and investment in recent years.
“These further improvements to the area will enhance accessibility and make the area more welcoming for local residents and visitors.
“It will offer more opportunities for exercise and physical activity to improve physical and mental wellbeing.”
The development was approved by East Suffolk Council’s Planning Committee South last October and forms part of wider ongoing investment in the South Seafront area, where the Martello Park has already delivered new homes, a play area and new car parking facilities, while East Suffolk Council has also invested in the development of a contemporary café, the refurbishment of two public shelters, and the long-term maintenance of an historic Martello Tower.
Work is being led by main contractor, Gipping Construction, and is expected to continue until next summer.