Work has started to transform a historic derelict pavilion overlooking the sea and owned by artist Dame Tracey Emin.

Construction crews are on site stripping out the Westbrook Loggia, near Margate, having commenced work last week, the star’s team confirmed.

The seafront building sat empty and abandoned for several years until it was snapped up by the ‘My Bed’ artist last summer.

Members of her team have revealed that a ‘very basic’ strip out has begun, and that further works will commence in February.

Workers can be heard inside and signs have been put up on the upper floor reading: “Work starts early February 2025.”

In March 2023, Ms Emin announced her plans to renovate the site into a swimming pool, sauna and restaurant whilst opening an art studio and school.

In front of then leader of the council Ash Ashbee, she 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."

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

It is thought that the building, also known as Westbrook Bay Pavilion, was constructed in 1910 and was originally an Edwardian bathing house.

Before it shut down, it hosted a cafe and a beach shop.

Ms 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.

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

In 2022, she gave a candid interview to KentOnline about her past, and her future hopes for the seaside destination.

The building is currently empty except for a section occupied by Thanet Lifeguard Club, which will remain as tenants.