MORE than 100 storm-ravaged beach huts are about to be demolished to allow full use of the area during the summer.

The badly damaged huts at Hurst Road, Milford on Sea, have been cordoned off since they were torn apart by 80mph winds that wreaked havoc on February 14 last year.

As reported, the structures are due to be replaced in a £1m scheme funded by beach hut owners and the district council.

The existing buildings will be dismantled by a specialist contractor, Keanes Ltd, which will be based in the Hurst Road West car park from May 28, with demolition starting on June 1 and lasting up to six weeks.

George Mackay, the company’s contracts manager, said the huts would be removed in a controlled manner to ensure public safety and minimise inconvenience.

A district council clerk of works will be on site each day to ensure the smooth running of the project. Lorries removing material from the site will avoid Milford village by turning left out of the car park and following the coast road.

A council spokesman said: “Hurst Road East car park will remain open throughout the demolition, while part of Hurst Road West car park will be closed for use by the contractors.

“The promenade footpath between the Needles Eye Café and the White House will be closed off while the works are carried out.

“Footpath users will be diverted on to the footpath along Hurst Road. Every effort will be made to open the promenade to the public at weekends. Access to the public conveniences will not be affected.”

Colin Read, the council’s head of environment services, said: “We’re sorry for any short-term disruption, but I’m pleased that we are going to be able to restore the promenade and beach for residents and visitors to enjoy this summer.

“We do ask that people take notice of the signs and diversions while the works are going on.

“We would also encourage people to take advantage of the new coastal footpath to the west of the White House, which has now been reopened following the severe damage caused to it during the 2014 storms.”

An outline planning application to replace the 119 beach huts was approved by the council in March.

Detailed design work is being carried out and a more detailed application is due to be submitted later this year.