Yates's

TAUNTON'S night-time economy is in crisis, with revellers spending less.

Yates's and Bar 61, in High Street, and Sturms Sports Bar, in Hammet Street, have shut.

A nightclub is opening less, while another nightspot is luring customers with cheap drinks.

Jim Hunter, Taunton Deane Council licensing manager, said: "We seem to have a higher number of premises closing than I can ever recall.

"That's linked to several things - the smoking ban, cheap alcohol in supermarkets, and premises in Taunton all competing for young people.

"The licensing trade is struggling, not just in Taunton but nationwide."

Police licensing officer Eric Lowes said last year's ban on smoking in public places possibly hit trade by 10%, although business - and subsequently crime and disorder - was already falling.

A Yates's spokeswoman said: "Taunton Yates's is one of a number of Laurel pubs that have been closed due to the impact of the smoking ban and difficult trading conditions."

Sturm's Sports Bar

Sturm's, which had cut its opening times, is boarded up and for sale - owner Kevin Sturmey was unavailable for comment yesterday.

A spokesman for Bar 61 said the outlet closed because it was unprofitable.

Dellers Wharf nightclub now only opens on Saturdays - down from three or four nights a week last year.

Owner Dave Nurcombe said: "Taunton has died because of all the negative publicity over the last few years.

"People aren't coming to Taunton - in fact Taunton people are going to Bridgwater.

"The business just isn't there."

The Market House is selling drinks at half price after midnight.

Owner Dale Howard said: "We want to hold people here longer rather than seeing them going to the clubs.

"It's increased numbers, but not revenue.

"It's tough, but we're doing OK because we keep reinventing ourselves."

*Meanwhile, the Naval and Military pub, in East Reach, is to close on Monday for six months for an £80,000 refurbishment.

It is being reviewed by the Deane's licensing committee next month after complaints by police of anti-social behaviour and evidence of drugs in the bar.

While several Taunton pubs have closed in recent years, including the Denmark, the Cottage, the Cider Press and the Alma, the Plough Inn, in Station Road, bucked the trend by re-opening over Easter.

6:27am Thursday 27th March 2008

Bar 61

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