THE transformation of the former Beecroft Art Gallery into nine luxury flats has been completed and the new homes are set to hit the market.

Estate Agent Dedman Gray is hosting an open day at the Edwardian building on Saturday and is now taking bookings to view the flats - ranging from £500,000 to £700,000.

The £1.8million project, in a prime spot on Westcliff Avenue, near the Cliffs Pavilion, has seen the outside remain largely unchanged apart from new windows and the roof being re-tiled.

Echo: Beecroft - The new redeveloped art galleryBeecroft - The new redeveloped art gallery (Image: Dedman Gray)

Images released by Dedman Gray have revealed sweeping sea views from large open bedrooms alongside big open-plan living and kitchen spaces.

Two two-bedroom flats, one on the ground floor and one on the first floor, have been set up as show homes ahead of Saturday’s open day.

Echo: Living space - A flats living area Living space - A flats living area (Image: Dedman Gray)

Dedman Gray director, Mike Gray said: “The redevelopment has been done well, we are delighted to see that the Beecroft development is now being brought forward as a completed project and that the refurbishment works of the whole building have been carried out to such a high standard, with excellent specifications.

“We always felt that it was important for this high-profile building to be regenerated with some careful planning and consideration given to the many fine features both internally and externally.

“I also add that even the balconies and the raw iron balustrades and the new roof have been restored to a high standard in keeping with the original character of the building.”

Southend Council sold the old Beecroft Art Gallery for more than £1million last year. The art gallery moved from its original Edwardian building to the town’s former library in Victoria Avenue, Southend, in 2014.

It was donated to the town by lawyer and art collector Walter Beecroft in 1952 A Dedman Gray spokesman said: “The exquisite first-floor apartment offers estuary views and a luxurious open-plan kitchen, living and dining area with the same high-end finishes.

“Step out onto the large south and east-facing wraparound balcony for a tranquil urban oasis. Plus, benefit from an allocated parking space for ultimate convenience.”

Call Dedman Gray on 01702 311 042 to book an appointment