The huts will be located west of Boscombe PierThe controversial new surf reef in Boscombe is planning yet more development, with disabled beach huts being built to the cost of £100,000.
A competition was held in which 173 entrants from all over the world submitted designs to be judged by a panel of seven, including disability access and design professionals.
‘The Seagull and Windbreak’ by Peter Francis Lewis of Brighton design consultancy AEREA in conjunction with a:b:i:r architects was successful in winning the £100,000 scheme.
The scheme is subject to cabinet approval and funded by the Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment.
Francis Lewis said “the seagull is represented by the canopy roof, each wing covering a pair of semi-detached beach huts. The curved horizontal bands of the exterior take their cue from the classic windbreak.”
The Boscombe surf reef was met with mixed reaction, although it will boost Boscombe’s economy there is no confirmed proof that the reef will actually perform.
The reef’s designers claim the reef will not create waves but instead amplify those already there. Despite these uncertainties, a projected annual income of £3 million however has made the scheme reality.
The beach huts are the latest advancement in an £11 million overhaul of Boscombe’s coastline. Andrew Emery, Boscombe Sea Change Project Manager said: “The new huts will be the first purpose designed accessible beach huts in the UK and will present another positive addition to Boscombe’s regeneration.”
The huts will be located to the west of Boscombe Pier, available for rent by next summer to disabled customers. They will include high colour contrast surfaces, tactile floors to assist the visually impaired and adjustable kitchen units.
Mary McManus, Principle Consultant, DOTS Disability said: “Our involvement has ensured that local disabled people’s needs have been comprehensively considered throughout.”
