World famous artist Tracey Emin has bought a derelict seafront building and plans to convert it into a bathers club and restaurant.

The ‘My Bed’ creator has told KentOnline of her “happiness and excitement” over the new project, with work expected to take about two years to complete.

Emin originally announced her aim to buy and renovate The Westbrook Pavilion, near Margate, at the opening of her art school in March.

Addressing then-council leader Ash Ashbee about her ideas for the site, the 1999 Turner Prize nominee said: “It's going completely derelict.

"It's a beautiful Art Deco-looking building and it's ginormous.

"I am intending to put in a proposal to buy it - at subsidised cost - and renovate it to make it into a swimming club."

To cheers from the crowds, she went on to say: "It will have hot showers, steam rooms, a café, a little restaurant and a sundeck.

"I want everyone from Margate to be able to enjoy it and be proud of it."

The 59-year-old then added: "Or maybe you could put some flats there or something," which was met with a chorus of boos from spectators.

Emin has now secured a deal to take over the building after agreeing the sale with Thanet District Council, which had owned the site.

She said: “I’m so happy and excited.

“Margate is going to have a bathers club that we can use all year round.

“It will take a couple of years to get it renovated and up and running.

“I want to make it beautiful and grand again.”

The purchase price has not been revealed although the building was previously listed for sale on Rightmove for £1 million.

It is thought that the Westbrook Bay Pavilion, also known as the Loggia Building, was constructed in 1910.

Emin’s extensive plans for its revival include a community bathers’ club with café, hot showers, toilet facilities, sauna and winter club room on the ground floor.

The Margate-born celebrity also hopes to add a large art studio, gym, restaurant and transform the roof into a sunbathing terrace.

Thanet District Council leader Rick Everitt (Lab) said: “We are pleased that the completion of this sale will secure a positive future for the Loggia.

“It occupies a prominent position on Westbrook Bay and holds fond memories for many local people and visitors.

“Tracey Emin’s innovative plans for the Loggia are set to rejuvenate the immediate surrounding area and provide excellent new facilities for residents, beach users and beach-focused businesses.

“Her visionary plans for the restoration and revitalisation of the building reflect her deep connection to the area and her commitment to fostering community engagement and sustainable development.”

Emin grew up in Margate, and returned in 2017 despite traumatic experiences tied to her hometown.

Last year, she gave a candid interview to KentOnline about her past, and her future hopes for the seaside destination.

Cllr Everitt added: “The renovation will also improve the external appearance of the building which provides an imposing backdrop to Westbrook Bay.”

The building – originally called the Westonville Bathing Pavilion - is currently empty except for a section occupied by Thanet Lifeguard Club, which will remain as tenants.