Part of Poole beach fenced off as business expands onto sand

Workmen have started to build a new outside area for Rockwater in Branksome as bosses at the business looks to expand its offerings. 

Diggers and tipper trucks are stationed within the metal fences and piles of sand have been stacked next to 10-foot-deep holes that have been dug up. 

Decking will soon be installed on the sand in the coming weeks as a platform for future yoga classes hosted by Rockwater during the day and in the evening, a place for diners to sit and eat their meals. 

A spokesman for the restaurant said: “There is some short-term work taking place outside Branksome at the moment. Rockwater is installing decking similar to its existing site in Hove. 

“Yoga will take place on the decking in the morning, with the new space also offering somewhere else to eat and drink later in the day."

Read more: Sandbanks: new bar and restaurant to open in July 

He added the decking will be an “updated, better version” of the site currently at the brand’s other venue in Hove, East Sussex. 

Work is expected to last along the beach for three weeks. 

In May, every Monday and Thursday between 6.45am and 7.45am Rockwater will be hosting yoga sessions at the site. 

The sessions are described as an activity to “unwind, relax and allow the body to move whilst taking in the sunrise across the Branksome horizon”. 

Initially launching its first venue in Hove during 2020, Rockwater opened its Branksome doors in September 2023 to replace Branksome beach cafe. 

Further down the coast, work is well under way for the business’s third venue in Sandbanks due to open this summer. 

On Sandbanks, Rockwater’s chief executive Luke Davis, said: “It’s going to be an exciting few months as we start to see our vision for Rockwater Village come to life. 

“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.” 

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.