I write in response to the recent letters concerning Poole’s beach huts (Have Your Say, August 28 and September 1).

With so many people wanting a beach hut currently we are not able to satisfy demand for long-term lets. However, we offer short-term lets for many beach huts – by the day, week or several weeks – and we are steadily increasing the number of huts that are let short-term instead of long-term. Subject to final approval we also hope to provide extra huts from this autumn.

Due to the financial pressures facing local government we must continue to raise additional income. Despite the increases being recommended to cabinet, our beach huts will continue to represent better value for money than in many other areas and they are on fantastic Blue Flag beaches.

It is also worth remembering that short-term lets are more affordable and that Access to Leisure discounts can apply in some circumstances.

For many years we have had a decorating and maintenance programme in place which sees around £150,000 spent each year and would advise any tenants with problems to contact us immediately.

Clive Smith, head of leisure services, Borough of Poole