17 February 2009 Nottingham Playhouse

17 February 2009

Nottingham Playhouse to stay open

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Specialist leisure firm Aquaclear Leisure Ltd has taken over the bar, restaurant and deli at Nottingham Playhouse, saving around 30 jobs.

The North East-based firm, which has a portfolio of 11 bars and restaurants across the UK, will now operate the CAST Restaurant, Bar & Deli adjoining the theatre, after a successful bid to rescue the eatery from administration.

As part of the move Aquaclear has agreed to keep all existing staff and to take over the running of three additional bars within the Playhouse itself.

Stuart Young, Director of Aquaclear Leisure Ltd, said: “We are delighted to have been able to step in and rescue CAST from administration and even more so to be able to preserve the jobs of all the existing staff. We have big plans for the future of the venue which I hope the drinkers and diners of Nottingham will really enjoy.”

Changes to CAST are expected to include the introduction of a new lunchtime menu, offering more affordable options, as well as an extended restaurant menu and a new selection of pre-theatre specials.

Under Aquaclear’s ownership the adjacent CAST bar will also be getting its own food menu, with a new wider selection of drinks being introduced here as well as in the three bars within the Playhouse theatre.

Aquaclear has also announced plans to revamp the offerings at the CAST Deli, including the introduction of hot food like homemade pizza, soup and pasta, designed to complement the existing gourmet sandwich range, plus a wider choice for outside catering.

Weather permitting, the firm also hopes to maximise CAST’s outdoor space, with the launch of summer BBQ’s and Tapas nights.

All of these changes will be implemented gradually, with the venue remaining open as usual throughout the takeover process.

Stuart Young said: “Our aim over the coming months is to really open up CAST not just for theatre-goers but for people from across Nottingham who are looking for somewhere they can go to relax and enjoy great value for money.”

Stephanie Sirr, Chief Executive at Nottingham Playhouse, added: "We are delighted to welcome Aquaclear Leisure who we know will provide a first class experience to our customers. We look forward to taking CAST from strength to strength over the coming years."

CAST will be Aquaclear’s second venture in Nottingham, following the successful opening of its award-winning Saltwater rooftop bar and restaurant in 2003. The firm also owns a further 11 venues across the UK including Popolo bar, lounge and kitchen in Newcastle and Sheffield and the recently opened Social Bar and Café in Carlisle.

From: Night Online

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