The founder of Rockwater, the food and drink destination and community hub in Hove, has announced a similar venture across two sites in Dorset, at Branksome Beach and Sandbanks near Poole.
Investor and operator Luke Davis has confirmed the plans that will see £8.7 million invested to transform two cafes into a Rockwater Village. The two prime seafront sites will help drive tourist footfall and regenerate the area with a community focus.
The first venue on the Sandbanks peninsula will feature a central cocktail bar, ice cream parlour and terrace with a sea view. The beachside deck will be the venue for Rockwater Life, a morning lifestyle programme and a takeaway kiosk will sell food, drinks and a beach retail range.
The site in Branksome is described as an “affordable” family-friendly restaurant with a roof terrace, beachside deck and takeaway kiosk. It will host comedy and music nights.
Rockwater Hove opened in 2021 after its launch was delayed by coronavirus restrictions. Davis, chief executive of IW Capital, invested £3m of a £4m total fund. It employs 300 staff and hosts classes, events and talks as part of a community hub as well as serving food and drink.
Davis said: “Covering two seafront sites – Branksome and Sandbanks cafes – the two venues will be linked through the concept of Rockwater Village. The new venues will completely change the way these seafronts operate, offering an elevated and community-driven hospitality experience.
“In keeping with Branksome and Sandbanks’ community-driven ethos, the venues will aim to serve as a new community hub to nurture the mental and physical well-being of all visitors.
“As my passion project, I want Rockwater Village to become the heart of the community, providing a go-to venue for lifestyle and wellness events which breaks the mould of the traditional hospitality venue that Brits might have become accustomed to.”
