BOSCOMBE beach-goers will soon be able to store their deckchairs in the best beach huts in the world.

That's the bold claim made by tourism chiefs as they unveiled artist's impressions of what the hip new huts or "surf pods" will look like.

Adorned with retro images from the 1950s, the huts will come in penthouse, double and single size, will have mains electricity and in some cases, hot and cold water.

The 59 huts will be part of the 1958 Overstrand complex, being transformed by award-winning designers Wayne and Gerardine Hemingway of Hemingway Design.

They will be completed by the end of October, when 31 huts will be available for purchase on a 25-year lease, while the rest will be reserved for casual hire from the council.

Bournemouth council is currently refusing to disclose price tags, but with views across the surf reef and a location next to a refurbished pier, it's unlikely that a slice of seaside chic will come cheap.

Wayne and Gerardine Hemingway, who founded Red or Dead before deciding to concentrate on affordable and social design, said: "We love Bournemouth.

"The resort has a great deal going for it - stunning beaches, great restaurants, walks, cycling and a variety of activities.

"The Boscombe Overstrand project is right up there with the most stimulating projects we have ever undertaken.

"It is not often you come across a historic mid-century modern building that has been empty for 15 years but has remained in good condition and has its original features and integrity. And when that building faces one of Britain's best beaches, has world-class views and is next to one of the coolest piers in the country, you have to pinch yourself.

"The beach huts at Boscombe will simply be the best in the world."

The regenerated Overstrand building will also feature a glass-fronted restaurant overlooking the surf reef and beach and two surfing shops, a lifeguard station, public showers, toilets, changing facilities and an events office.

4:07pm Thursday 26th June 2008

VISION: Wayne and Gerardine at Boscombe Overstrand

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