A POPULAR Jersey nightclub will shut this weekend after almost two decades.
To mark its closure, ROJO nightclub is hosting a free 12-hour farewell party on Saturday, featuring over 40 DJs and performers with entry from 2pm until 2am.
The club, located on Beresford Street, has been a staple of Jersey’s nightlife scene for several years, operating under various names such as Lords, The Venue and La Cala.
Despite surviving the pandemic thanks to a successful crowdfunding campaign, which raised £45,000, owner JP Anquetil made the decision in November to close the club.
He said: “There is no single reason for closing rather a coming together of several factors predominantly driven by a general downturn in numbers across town since the end of the pandemic, the ever increasing cost of alcohol as well as the cost of living making regular nights out a thing of the past.
“We have an outdated licensing law that reflects the conservative and risk averse culture of the Island. Basically everything is stacked against having a vibrant night time industry.”
He added: “Most young people choose to save their money and go away for a weekend to destinations in the UK and Europe where there is so much on offer and who can blame them.
“Young people also pre-drink before coming into town as it’s simply too expensive to buy a drink. That is the young people that are still here – so many are leaving.”
Looking to the future, Mr Anquetil said he did not plan to return to the bar and nightclub industry, but would continue his involvement with The Wonky Factory, an events company he co-owns.
“I’d love someone to pick up the baton and keep the venue going,” he added.
