New Big Brother compound pictured from the air

Newly released aerial pictures reveal the finishing touches are in place, including outdoor furnishings, landscaping and a full to the brim pool.

As the reality show gears up for its ninth series, TV bosses hope the new purpose built complex will provide the backdrop for must-see viewing after audience figures dropped to their lowest ever last year.

Birds eye: Big Brother's Hertfordshire complex from the air

This is Big Brother: The reality show is set to return to screens in June

A glimpse inside the compound reveals rather tacky surrounds, including a bathroom featuring an ostentatious swan tap attached to a huge bath surrounded by flowers, greenery, gold statues and blue velvet sofas.

But the bedroom - in the familiar dormitory-style - offers far less luxury in the form of thin, scratchy blankets and uncomfortable mattresses.

There is a large living area with comfy sofas and plush coverings as well as an ultra-modern separate kitchen area with a red theme.

Bright side: The purpose-built complex features a pool and outdoor furniture

The garden has an enclosed seating area and an Alice in Wonderland-proportioned giant ashtray for smokers to sit in.

Sharon Powers, creative director of Big Brother, said: 'We've got a really exciting group of housemates ready to go into the Big Brother house.

'But they need to remember that the Big Brother rules are there for a reason - Big Brother will not tolerate rule breaks and will be tougher than ever on housemates.'

With the new Big Brother house ready to welcome its guests, details of what will be in store for them when they move in next week remain a closely-guarded secret.

The bathroom: The housemates have a very gaudy footballer's wives style bathroom to relax in

The kitchen is all sharp corners and avant garde design. Colours dominate in the

The living room: The modern look of the dining area in the living room is offset by the new BB shattered eye logo

Participants in the ninth series of the reality show will be at the mercy of Big Brother - who over the last eight years has ruled over housemates.

The Big Brother format was developed in 1999 in Holland by producer John de Mol, but has now become a hit in nearly 70 countries worldwide.

It became a surprise summer ratings-winner when the UK version appeared on our screens in 2000.

Davina McCall will host the show - which starts with the new housemates arriving on Thursday, June 5.