A proposal for a new late-night bar to be opened in Arnold has sparked excitement from residents in the town who hope it can bring 'some life' in their area. An application was put forward to Gedling Borough Council on April 12 for what documents show to be 'Rene's Bar', in Front Street.
The unit was previously occupied by Tomik, a Polish food shop, which has now shut down. The proposal, put forward by applicant Victoria Garfoot, initially wanted to sell alcohol every day of the week until 2am, and close its doors at 2.30am.
The prospect of a late closing time didn't seem to bother shoppers and nearby residents, with one saying they felt the bar could add some much needed 'life' to the area. Conor Fitzgerald, 31, said: "I think it's a great idea. It's not being used for anything at the moment and that's as good an idea as anything else I can think of.
"There aren't many places round here really that offer entertainment that late on and I think they'd get a good crowd. Yes I think it could add some life to the area and I think it's a good use of that old shop."
James Blanchard, 42, said: "No I had no idea about that but I hope it happens now. It sounds quite exciting and something else to go out to, isn't it.
"I don't think Arnold's bad but there isn't a whole lot to do in the evenings. We've got some decent pubs and shops and those sorts of things but there are also a few places boarded up that need something doing with and I think it would be a nice addition. I'm not too concerned about the opening hours if they do it responsibly."
However, as part of the planning process, an environmental health officer wrote to Gedling Borough Council to request a change of plan. He requested a closing time of 1am and a cease of entertainment at 11pm.
If plans for Rene's Bar go ahead it will operate near multiple retailers include Iceland, Boots, Co-op Travel, Boyes, Savers and Costa Coffee. Commercial estate agents FHP have been advertising the unit for £25,000 per year.
