A POPULAR bistro and bar has closed its doors after more than two decades and will be immediately replaced by a new live music bar.

Le Bateau in Commercial Road was one of the first bars in Ashley Cross when it opened on June 26, 1998, and became an instant hit with its wood fired menu and funky surf-inspired interior.

After 23 years of trading, owner Richard Crump decided he wanted to spend more time with his family and pursue other interests. He said he had some great times in the last quarter of a century, which saw Le Bateau start Grooves on the Green amongst other things, but he is now excited for the future of the bar under different ownership.

La Bateau remains open until Saturday April 23.

The Dive Bar will open on Friday, April 29 under the new management and ownership of a local family. Their aim is to put Ashley Cross “back on the live music circuit” following the closure of the nearby Mr Kyps venue in 2018.

Bournemouth Echo: Bruce the shark of La Bateau, which will remain in Dive BarBruce the shark of La Bateau, which will remain in Dive Bar

The launch party will feature Dirty DC, the UK's foremost AC/DC tribute band.

A Dive Bar spokesperson told the Echo: “There is a fantastic community in Ashley Cross and we’re really excited to be more a part of it.

“We’re going to bring a party vibe to Dive Bar which is needed because, as Mr Kyps has gone, there isn’t an outlet for local musicians to perform and showcase themselves. It’s all kinds of music too and we’ll open it up for jazz and blues performers as well as the indie, soul and rock.

“Dive Bar is set to remain central to the night life of Ashley Cross for some time to come.”

Bournemouth Echo: Dive Bar will open in Commercial Road, Poole, on April 29Dive Bar will open in Commercial Road, Poole, on April 29

With acts booked through to the end of the summer, Thursday nights will be live music night every week. Following in its predecessor’s footsteps, Dive Bar will continue to be a welcoming bar and kitchen as well as the usual busy 2am nightspot with DJ's on Friday and Saturday nights.

The menu will be American inspired, and the spokesperson was keen to add that Bruce – the prop shark that was hoisted up in Le Bateau – would remain at the new bar to recognise the “continuity” of the businesses.

Visit divebarpoole.com for more information.