Work on long-awaited beach huts in Great Yarmouth is expected to begin over the next few months - after a 'frustrating' delay of a year.

Plans were announced in March 2022 for dozens of beach huts to be bought and rented near the Venetian Waterways - one of the busiest sections of promenade in the town.

Groundworks and the conversion of a nearby amenity block by North Drive car park began in January last year, with the 43 huts expected to be open in May.

But the huts never arrived - and Great Yarmouth Borough Council blamed the "challenging economic climate". 

Great Yarmouth Mercury: The area inside the North Drive car park remains fenced off while the delivery of 43 beach huts is expected.The area inside the North Drive car park remains fenced off while the delivery of 43 beach huts is expected. (Image: James Weeds)

Now a Town Hall spokesperson has said a contractor will be appointed within the next week and work is due to "begin soon".

"The groundworks are complete and the huts will be rolled out and available over the next few months," the spokesperson said.

‘’The delay has been frustrating, but issues with the original contractor could not have been foreseen."

READ MORE: Great Yarmouth seafront beach huts 'hoped' to arrive soon

Great Yarmouth Mercury: Carl Smith, leader of Great Yarmouth Borough Council.Carl Smith, leader of Great Yarmouth Borough Council. (Image: James Weeds)

Carl Smith, leader of the borough council, said he was pleased with the announcement but added they would not be ready for this summer's season.

"We're looking forward to the huts being ready for people to rent," he said.

"They will be an important income stream for the council with our financial situation at the moment.

Great Yarmouth Mercury: Ten beach huts being installed at Gorleston promenade in 2021.Ten beach huts being installed at Gorleston promenade in 2021. (Image: Submitted)

"Hopefully they can build on the success of the beach huts in Gorleston," he added.

The £450,000 scheme follows the success of the 70 beach huts built on Gorleston's lower prom.

At the time of writing, the Visit Great Yarmouth website contains no information about prices for the beach huts in Great Yarmouth.

The council spokesperson said that construction projects across the country have been impacted by supply line problems and the spike in inflation.

"Once finished, the beach huts will be a great addition for the seafront," they added.