New Dorset bar and restaurant to open in July

Work on Rockwater’s second venue in Poole has already begun and is “moving at pace” ahead of its launch, bosses have said. 

Until recently, the Sandbanks site was still being considered after extra “material amendments” were made to the original planning application late last year. 

Rockwater’s chief executive Luke Davis told the Echo in December that delays in the Sandbanks and the Branksome site had cost him between £8m to £10m in lost revenue. 

But he warned that it could be even higher if Sandbank isn’t built on time. 

Luke said: “I’m pleased we can now put to bed all the rumours flying around about Rockwater Sandbanks. 

“The confirmation on all agreements puts us one step closer to opening the doors of what will be a game-changing venue for the Sandbanks area, providing a luxury, multi-faceted destination for both residents and visitors to enjoy. 

“Working closely with the council, we’ve introduced various site safety measures to ensure that the project runs smoothly with as little disruption as possible.  

“It’s going to be an exciting few months as we start to see our vision for Rockwater Village come to life. 

Sandbanks Cafe (Image: Newsquest)

“I’m sure it won’t be long before customers will be enjoying the breathtaking roof terrace views, accompanied by great food, inspirational music, with a delicious cocktail or coffee to hand.” 

Luke previously hit out at delays in BCP Council’s planning department and a “lack of communication”. 

However, BCP’s chief operations officer Jess Gibbons said that officers only dealt with the planning agent and not the developer. 

At £1,000 for an annual membership, Rockwater provides its guests with access to a number of events, including small concerts with high-profile musicians such as Fatboy Slim and James Bay. 

It was founded in Brighton and Hove and expanded to Poole in 2022.

It offers a number of social events including sip and paint, supper clubs, craft workshops, live music, and a chess club.