One more beach hut has been reserved in the last three months at a much-vaunted new Suffolk seashore village where just four of the 27 huts have been sold.

The apparently slow pace of sales of huts at the Felixstowe seashore village, which opened last October, was revealed by this newspaper in June.

At the time, East Suffolk Council, which oversaw the development, said it was the first summer season since the village opened, while Felixstowe mayor David Rowe blamed market conditions, with potential buyers cutting back expenditure due to the cost-of-living crisis.

A council spokesperson said since June, there had been a further reservation to buy a hut, along with 22 inquiries for more information and viewings.

He said an easing of price inflation had resulted in more interest with estate agents Fenn Wright, which is marketing the properties.

A beach chalet is also available for weekend hire at the site, costing £80.

The spokesperson added: “Following the sale of four beach huts at the Seashore Village in Felixstowe, we have welcomed 22 inquiries for more information and viewings and have received a further reservation for the purchase of a hut, which will now go through the sales and legal completion process.

“Local agent, Fenn Wright has reported hoping to see a further upward trajectory of interest following recent easing of inflation and its resulting impact on living costs.

“The site also benefits from a fully accessible beach chalet, available for hire by individuals and community groups recently for a two-day summer weekend offer price of £80, as well as longer hire options.

"Each chalet is furnished and has lighting and heating, making it a warm and comfortable place to spend time by the sea, even in the winter, and we expect bookings to continue.”

Prices for the huts range from £22,000 to £35,000 for a 15-year lease, with the option for a further five years.

When the village opened, councillor Sarah Whitelock, the council's cabinet member for communities, leisure and tourism, said the venue near the pier would provide 'a really welcome enhancement to this vibrant part of Felixstowe'.

The village, between Sea Road and the prom, also features an activity park, which opened in July and has a climbing wall, petanque piste, table tennis tables, accessible picnic benches and an outdoor space for workouts.