Decision due on Rockwater Village plans at Branksome Chine

Despite incurring 226 objections from residents, a BCP Council planning officer has recommended that entrepreneur Luke Davis’ hopes of transforming the promenade at Branksome Chine into a community food, drink and entertainment complex be given the green light.

Mr Davis’ vision for Rockwater Village’s to replace the existing cafés in Branksome and Sandbanks are modelled on the successful operation he currently runs in Hove and are intended to “respectfully revitalise” offerings at the seafront.

Members of the BCP Council’s planning committee are due to assess the application at a meeting on Thursday, December 15.

The Branksome Beach restaurant

In her reasoning for recommending the committee grant the proposals, case officer Sophie Burch said: “Whilst there is some harm to the heritage assets identified, it is considered the harm is on the lowest end of the scale and that on this occasion can be outweighed by the public benefits of the development through a sensitive modernisation of the building along with the enhanced facility to the benefit of the area’s tourism offer.

“The existing character of the site is well established with the 1930s building providing a focal point to Branksome Chine for many years delivering tourism related facilities most recently in the form of the café that exists today.

“The design approach takes the form of combining the character of the 1930’s building on its frontage along with modern extensions at the rear.”

A Rockwater shack selling food and drink is already operational next door to the restaurant site, having replaced the former Branksome Chine Beach Shop earlier this year.

Rockwater's Shacks by the Shore at Branksome Chine (Image: Newsquest)

Luke Davis previously told the Echo that since the opening of the shack, feedback from residents had been more positive and said it had abated some fears the complex would be nightclub-like party venue.

“People in Hove were worried thinking it was going to be a nightclub with people getting drunk and causing nuisance – none of that has happened,” he said.

“We want to create a year-round community hub in both [Branksome and Sandbanks] which connect to each other and provide something for everyone.

“As well as food and drink, we want these spaces – especially Branksome – to house community activities like film screenings, drop-in centres for health awareness, meet and greets with authors, yoga, and much more.”

A date has not yet been announced for the committee to discuss the Sandbanks application.