Historic beach huts on the mend

WORK has begun on transforming five more beach huts at Langland Bay as part of the revival of the historic huts.

The third phase of major hut refurbishments follows continued interest from people willing to invest £10,000 for a 10-year beach hut lease to funds its reconstruction.

The latest phase will take the number of wooden huts restored to 26. The remaining 52 are continuing to be maintained and let on a seasonal basis by way of a draw for three-month periods.

The number of huts to undergo transformation could increase depending on demand but it's expected that at least half the huts will remain available through the traditional summer let scheme.

The beach huts have graced Langland Bay since the 1920s but had in recent times been showing their age thanks partly to the wear and tear of decades of sea spray and weather.

Swansea Council's Corporate Property Department evolved a scheme to take a number of huts and reconstruct them to enable them to stand the test of time for years to come.

To meet the cost of replacement 10-year leases were granted in return for a one-off payment.

Cllr Graham Thomas, Swansea Council's Cabinet Member for Culture, Recreation and Tourism, said: "I'm delighted that people have come forward and invested in the 10-year lease scheme which has enabled us to transform these huts despite the current economic climate.

"Not only are they benefiting from the new-look huts in this amazing setting but they are helping us transform the look of the area to the benefit of other beach users too.

"I am looking forward to seeing the latest huts completed."

People considering getting involved in the 10-year hut lease scheme and contributing to Langland's revival should contact Paul Jenkins of Corporate Property on 01792 636775 or email him at paul.jenkins@swansea.gov.uk for more information.