The new manager of Poole’s major quayside hotel has put an end to years of speculation over its future.

“We are open for business,” said Craig Findleton, general manager of the Quay Thistle Hotel.

“The hotel is definitely not being pulled down.”

For nearly a decade the hotel, with its fabulous harbour views, has been at the centre of proposals to redevelop the site, which is next to Dolphin Quays.

During the noughties there were three applications to demolish the hotel and build varying sizes of mixed use flats, commercial space and a replacement hotel, continuing the Dolphin Quays redevelopment.

Plans were submitted in 2004, 2008 and 2009 and all withdrawn, while Borough of Poole refused an application in 2008 to demolish the hotel.

Craig, who took over the hotel last November said: “My understanding was the hotel was going to be knocked down and a new hotel built on the corner by the roundabout. That is definitely not happening.”

To underline its commitment to the 70-bedroom hotel, Thistle has embarked on a programme to update it, having already revamped corridors, reception and bar with the bedrooms next.

Between 35 and 50 staff are employed at the hotel, depending on the time of year, and two have worked there since it opened around 29 years ago.

“It’s great to have the longevity of service. A lot of people have been here five or 10 years”, he said.

Popular with business visitors during the week as well as tourists, the hotel is a favoured wedding venue.

“You only have to take the happy couple up to the restaurant and let them look out. The view sells it for them,” said Craig.

The New Zealander who has worked in some of Thistle’s 33 hotels in London and Brighton, intends to take full advantage of the prime position with views across the marina to Brownsea Island, playing a part in the many tourism events organised along the quay.