MILLIONS of pounds have been invested in a seafront venue.

Rockwater Hove – described as a community hub on the seafront – has attracted more than £1 million of investment from locals.

With additional millions put in by lead funder, Luke Davis, chief executive of IW Capital, a total of £3.7 million has now been put into the Hove seafront project.

Mr Davis said: “This is a hugely exciting project to be involved with and the success of the Shacks by the Shore in the summer has shown us what a community-centric venue can be.

“As a local resident, I’ve always wanted a place like this near me and from the feedback we have received from people around Hove, this is something that a lot of people want too.”

The Argus:

The funds will be used to refurbish the space and create a roof terrace – subject to planning permission – and a hospitality venue available for wedding hire and live music.

There are also plans for sea swimming, a tennis club, pilates, yoga and other exercise classes to engage the community.

Mr Davis added: “The response we received from local investors was incredible and we are really proud to be part community-owned and will continue to take on feedback from local voices to make it the best possible venue for the area.

“Now is actually a really good time to invest in this sector; it has been a really tough year but it has forced us to innovate which has been incredibly important to our success so far.”

Outdoor trade amid winter restrictions is set to be bolstered by the addition of 30 “igloos”.

The Argus:

These are designed to allow families to enjoy the outdoor setting while following Covid guidance and staying warm.

One of Rockwater’s key objectives, it says, will be to invest in the design and rebranding of the building itself to create a “year-round destination venue, giving a well-needed stimulus to the winter trade”.

Mr Davis said: “With seemingly a new Covid vaccine proving effective each week, we could be drawing toward the end of restrictions and a place such as Rockwater is sure to benefit from increased demand and custom in the spring.”