COLCHESTER BID bosses have been in discussions with "several very exciting premises organisations" since ATIK announced it was closing.
The popular nightclub in Colchester High Street announced previously it was closing its doors this Saturday, June 3.
In a previous statement, it was said the “difficult decision” was due to “challenging late-night trading around the 18 and 19-year-old market in Colchester”.
However, in a late twist of events, ATIK has confirmed it is staying open “for now” after last-minute talks with the landlord days before it was due to close for good.
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In a statement on its social media, a spokesman said: “It’s true. We’re not closing this weekend.
“Following last-minute talks with the landlord, we may have found a way to keep the venue open and will continue to operate as normal for now.
“We hope to confirm the future of the venue within a couple of weeks.”
The venue had organised to host two special events for its closing weekend, which are still going ahead.
A “Hippodrome Reunion Party” on Friday with “the best resident DJs from 1988-2008 Hippodrome days for a night of pure nostalgia”, followed by ATIK’s final send-off event on Saturday, which is now a normal Saturday event.
The statement added: “All tickets purchased for this weekend are still valid as we celebrate this iconic venue’s history. However, if you would like a refund, please just get in touch.”
Colchester BID Manager Sam Good said: “We have been a conduit between the landlord and several very exciting premises organisations who have expressed interest in the site.
“If any of those were to come through, it would be exciting for the city centre.
“However, if there was a deal to be made with ATIK, we would work with them going forwards.
“A huge part of our business plan is to continue to support the nighttime economy, as it is something we are massively keen on.
“As well as ways to increase footfall, there has been lots of communications on supporting safety at nighttime, as we want people feeling safe which means they will want to come back.”
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