Construction is underway once again on the new Rockwater venue in Sandbanks ahead of a planned late summer opening.
The initial construction was delayed due to environmental considerations, necessitating a redesign to protect the sand dune ecosystem. It was due to open in the Spring of this year.
Construction is expected to take approximately 20 weeks, with hopes to welcome guests for the final weeks of the summer season.
The multi-million-pound beachfront venue will create more than 150 jobs and become the largest restaurant in Rockwater’s growing portfolio, joining locations in Branksome and the initial site in Hove.
Luke Davis, founder of Rockwater, told Bournemouth One: “We’re thrilled to finally be moving forward with Sandbanks. While we’ve enjoyed welcoming guests to our temporary beachside shacks in the meantime, we can’t wait to unveil the full Rockwater experience this summer.
“We know our neighbours are keen for construction to be completed as fast as possible – so we are doing all we can to minimise disruption and open this beautiful new venue swiftly.”
The location will serve as a year-round hub for dining, socialising, wellness activities, and entertainment, containing an upstairs fine dining experience delivering and a British-style open flame cookery area serving large cuts of fresh fish and meat.
The food menu will be designed by consultant chef James Golding, who joined Rockwater earlier this year.
A cocktail bar incorporating a retractable roof will be on the top floor.