A COLCHESTER nightclub is preparing to welcome back customers with a resourceful way of working within restrictions – by reopening as a ‘night pub’.

After almost 18 months of enforced closure, ATIK Colchester, in High Street will be reopen on Friday, with no 10pm curfew.

Although ATIK revellers might not be able to hit the dancefloor, they will be able to enjoy a ‘sit-down disco’ and order ‘bottomless’ pizza every Friday and Saturday between the hours of 9pm and 2am.

The club is hoping after a frustrating year of being left behind while pubs, bars and restaurants have been allowed to open it can bounce back bigger and better than before the pandemic.

ATIK’s general manager, Nick Jackson, said: “We’re really excited to reopen initially as a ‘night pub’ and are offering our guests a great night out with no 10pm bedtime.

"Whether you're coming straight from a beer garden, or you've spent hours getting ready, everyone's welcome.

“It’s been a tough year and for young people it’s been especially difficult to have so many freedoms curtailed.

"Nightclubs may have been the first to close and the last to open, but we can’t wait to throw open our doors and welcome everyone back inside for a fun but safe night out.”

Read more:

In preparation for opening, ATIK is having a deep clean, and staff training and procedures, from queuing to cleaning schedules, will be adjusted.

Nick added: “Guest safety is our priority, and we have the experience and expertise to manage large groups of people and the space to create an atmosphere without overcrowding.”

From June 21, ATIK hopes to once again be able to operate as a nightclub and will have some of the biggest DJs in the UK ready to entertain guests.

Nick said: “The scenes at Circus, Liverpool where 6,000 young people took part in a test event were amazing and emotional to watch.

"It’s really important that we have the opportunity to reopen without any restrictions that are not in line with the rest of hospitality."

To apply for tickets, www.atikclub.co.uk/club/colchester.