BOURNEMOUTH'S popular beach lodges have re-opened to guests after several months of closure due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Half of the 24 lodges, situated between Southbourne and Boscombe, are now open to allow for social distancing measures to be followed.

New procedures include contact free check-in and check-out, daily temperature checks for staff and deep cleaning of each lodge after use, followed by a 72 hour sterilisation period of that unit.

There will also be extra cleaning of touch points such as gate latches and bins as well as reminders of regular use of hand sanitiser and the importance of social distancing.

Guests can still bring their dogs and nearby bars, restaurants, surf shops and kiosks are also beginning to welcome back visitors and residents alike.

Leader of BCP Council, Cllr Vikki Slade said: "I am delighted that the wonderful Bournemouth Beach Lodges are welcoming guests once more. The team have worked extraordinarily hard over the last few months to make sure the site is a safe but fun and relaxing base for a fantastic break in these testing times.

"This phased re-opening of the lodges has already attracted a very high level of bookings and this is an early heartening sign that the tourism industry is gradually recovering across the conurbation of Bournemouth , Christchurch and Poole."

Launched in 2017, The Bournemouth Beach Lodges operate all year round, including Christmas and New Year and are perfect for a three or four night stay at any time.

The design is cool and contemporary with a mezzanine level sleeping area, a central staircase that doubles up as shelving, modular furniture and a private wooden terrace. Every Lodge has WiFi, heating, a shower room and toilet, a television and a well-equipped kitchen.

Demand for the lodges is as high as ever and the team hope to be able to return to full capacity as soon as the global public health situation allows.

More information is available at bournemouthbeachlodges.co.uk