Willoughby's Bar and Club in Stamford to reopen for first time since Covid-19 lockdown in March 2020
A nightclub is due to reopen its doors tomorrow night (Friday, December 17) for the first time since the initial Covid-19 lockdown last year.
Nick Pistolas, who employs 30 staff at Willoughby’s Bar and Club in Broad Street, Stamford, is looking forward to welcoming back customers.
He said: “We hope we can inject some life back into the Stamford night time economy and complement the many great bars in the town.”
Nightclubs could reopen in July as part of the Government’s phased return out of lockdown but Nick said the delay in reopening Willoughby’s was down to “exciting new alterations” being made at the venue, including a new DJ box and interior lighting, and reinstating the former Central nightclub entrance in Silver Lane.
A large clock above the stairwell, which Nick described as ‘iconic’, has also been restored by Frank Newbon, a Stamford-based signwriter.
Customers can expect to see DJs every weekend and Nick is hoping to attract some “big names” after Christmas with special nights and personal appearances. An online booking service is also set to be introduced for VIP booths for parties.
Enhanced ventilation has been installed to make the venue safer.
With Covid-19 passes being approved this week by the Government, everyone who visits will either have to show their pass or proof of a negative lateral flow test on the door. Nick asked people come prepared, to make entry as smooth as possible.
He added: “We have had a lot of excitement about the reopening and can’t wait to get going.
“I am sure there will be some people who are cautious about coming but, to be honest, we are no different in capacity to any other pub, restaurant, cinema, supermarket or any other hospitality venue which gets busy at the weekend.”
With the nightclub shut for so long, rumours circulated this summer that there were plans to convert the building into flats. Nick said he had no idea where the rumour came from and that there was no plan to do that.
The venue will be open from 9pm to 3am from tomorrow (Friday) until Christmas Eve. It will then open on December 26, 30 and 31.
