THE ROOKERY

The Rookery was built for William Morton Pitt, MP for Dorset and local benefactor in 1825.

It was the first new building after completion of the extensions to the Manor House, the building later to become the Royal Victoria Hotel.

Now a residential grade II listed building, in earlier years it served as part customs house, library, shop and cafe.

On the death of Mr. Pitt in 1836 the building was sold to Mr. Taylor for £370. A wooden conservatory was added early this century and three two bedroom maisonettes were formed. The Pier Head Restaurant was completed after the Second World War following the felling of three great Elms in which the birds that gave the area its name nested.

Recently falling into disrepair the Rookery building was completely refurbished by the Storer family, late bakers and confectioners of Coventry under the supervision of Michael Storer.

The Pier Head Restaurant, now derelict, has been the subject of many planning applications over the years. Possible uses have included a bingo hall, cafe/bar, and nursing home. Long standing negotiations continue by the present owners and chartered architect Mr. Barry Chapman, with the local planning authority, to secure redevelopment of the whole triangular site. The dominance and importance of The Rookery itself will be emphasised by the building of a low pavilion style light weight structure incorporating watersports centre, restaurants, cafe/bars and letting apartments.