Work has reached completion on a new seaside development of beach huts and landscaped public greenspace in Felixstowe.
The new Seashore Village attraction features 27 traditional-style timber beach huts provided by East Suffolk Council.
Completion of the Seashore Village brings to fruition a wider regeneration project on land between Sea Road and The Promenade – with a neighbouring activity park, featuring climbing walls, sports equipment and games, opening at the beginning of the school holidays in July.
East Suffolk Council has worked with Scott Beckett Estate Agents for the sale of the new beach huts, primarily set around a central ‘fish-shaped’ lawn, created by Plaice Design architects.
Each timber hut was purpose-built by PJ Spillings Ltd before being assembled on the South Seafront site, formerly occupied by a ‘trim trail’ and volleyball area, where Hollins Architects oversaw work led by Gipping Construction.
The area was entirely re-landscaped, with ramp access installed and new public toilets built to include Changing Places facilities for people requiring more space for mobility or assistance. The nearby carpark has also been remodelled to allow better access to the site and provide more accessible spaces for wheelchair users.
Final preparations now proceed on the hireable ‘pod style’ beach chalets, designed with accessibility and inclusivity in mind. The building has an adaptable form and can be configured for use as five single accessible chalet spaces or opened-up for larger groups, providing a flexible and access-friendly facility.
Cllr Sarah Whitelock, East Suffolk's cabinet member for Communities, Leisure and Tourism, said: “The Seashore Village provides a really welcome enhancement to this vibrant part of Felixstowe.
“The focus here has been on recreation and accessibility, for the benefit of public health and wellbeing.
“Alongside all the other high-quality facilities in the area, this should further strengthen Felixstowe’s tourism offer and provide another distinctive development for the town to be proud of.”
Huts are being sold on a long-lease arrangement, with full details available from Scott Beckett, by calling 01394 338000 or emailing enquiries@scottbeckett.co.uk.
The development forms part of wider investment in the South Seafront area, where the Martello Park has delivered new homes, a play area and new car parking facilities.
East Suffolk Council also invested in the development of an award-winning contemporary café, the refurbishment of two public shelters, the long-term maintenance of an historic Martello Tower and improved access linking the pavement along Sea Road and Orford Road to the beachfront.