Switch nightclub in Preston has been ordered not to reopen tonight

Switch nightclub in Market Street, Preston, was due to re-open tonight (August 1) after being closed for six months

The club in Market Street was due to reopen tonight for the first time in six months, but the city's Council has now ordered it to remain closed.

Preston City Council has warned the club that it will be hit with a prohibition notice if it ignores advice and proceeds to open its doors this evening.

Councillor Peter Moss, deputy leader at Preston City Council, said: "Following further clarity and guidance from Government, which we requested, it is clear that Switch nightclub cannot reopen this evening, regardless of the safety measures in place.

"We have formally advised the owner of this position and are working closely with the police to monitor the situation.

"We advise all customers to seek refunds as a prohibition notice will be served if Switch attempts to go ahead with the event this evening."

Switch announced on Monday (July 24) that it would be reopening this weekend, despite the Government confirming on July 17 that clubs are to remain shut.

But nightclub bosses revealed on social media that they would be opening its doors for a launch event running from 10pm to 4am on Saturday.

It said safety measures had been put in place, including restricting the club to a limited capacity.

From next week, it said it planned to resume club nights Quids Fridays and Switch Live Saturdays, including live performances from artists and DJs each week.

Preston Switch nightclub to reopen its doors this weekend

But earlier this week, the Council confirmed that it had not given the green-light for the club to reopen.

Speaking on Monday, Simon Neighbour, environmental health manager at Preston City Council, had said: “We are in continued communication with Switch nightclub regarding their potential re-opening, but as far as we are concerned it remains 'potential' and no decisions have been made.

"We have contacted the Government for clarity in the regulations that relate to nightclubs and are waiting for further information.

"The health and safety of residents, visitors and employees remains our primary concern, and until we have this information we’re unable to make any formal decisions regarding this venue or any other nightclub in the city."