THE opening date for a new cafe in a former Wetherspoon pub has been announced. 

Aroma Cafes will open in the former Nightjar pub in Victoria Road, Ferndown at 8am on Monday, July 1. 

As previously reported, the Nightjar pub closed its doors in September last year. 

A statement from the cafe said: “Firstly, [we] would just like to thank you all for your interest and support following our advertisement of our grand opening taster evening, we had an overwhelming amount of numbers on the guest list which we have now had to close. 

“If you didn’t get a chance to put your name on the guest list, don’t panic. The restaurant will be open from 8am to 5.30pm on Monday, July 1 operating a first come first serve policy so you still have a chance to get first glance at our beautiful new restaurant.  

“Not available on July 1? We will soon be updating our website with a booking link where you can book a table up to 90 days in advance so get all your special occasions organised and come join us.” 

According to the Café Aroma website, it was established by the Urel family in 2010 and prides itself on having an extensive menu featuring dishes “from all around the world”. 

It also describes itself as being known for having the “friendliest staff on the south coast” and serving “generous portions”. 

It is understood Wetherspoon’s decided not to renew the lease for the building after the landlord hiked up the price. 

More than 1,000 people signed a petition urging the pub chain to think again over its decision to close the watering hole. 

However, the Nightjar pulled its final pint on Sunday, September 24.