Beach huts revival boost

Mixed weather and a difficult economic climate have done little to dampen enthusiasm for Swansea's Langland Bay Beach Huts.

This summer expressions of interest were sought ahead of a planned third phase of beach hut replacement at Swansea's popular Langland Bay.

Now Swansea Council has announced all five huts in the phase have already been snapped up. Expressions of interest are still being sought in just one other hut at this stage.

The number of huts to undergo transformation could now increase further. People considering getting involved in the 10-year hut lease scheme are still being urged to get in touch.

So far 21 of the 78 wooden landmark huts have been rebuilt to stand the test of time through the highly successful 10-year lease scheme. The third phase is likely to begin construction later this year.

The beach huts have graced Langland Bay since the 1920s but had in recent times been showing their age due 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.

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

The Council is also continuing to maintain the existing huts which continue to be let on a seasonal basis by way of a draw for three-month periods. Once again this summer these huts were also in high demand.

The number of huts to be replaced in coming phases will depend on the interest shown in the proposed leasing but it is envisaged that half the huts will remain available for shorter lets.

Cllr Graham Thomas, Swansea Council's Cabinet Member for Culture, Recreation and Tourism, said: "I am delighted that the hut leasing scheme has continued to attract people despite the current economic climate.

"Given their setting it is easy to see why people who are looking to enjoy this area rather than head abroad are snapping up their own historic hut.

"I am looking forward to seeing more huts undergoing their transformation later in the year."

Anyone interested in the third phase should contact Paul Jenkins of Swansea Council's Corporate Property team on 01792 636775 or email him on paul.jenkins@swansea.gov.uk for more information.