A York nightclub has announced it’s temporary closure for this evening (Friday 21 March) as part of a commitment to improving the club’s safety.
It comes after police began an investigation into allegations of drink spiking at Club Salvation on Tanner Row.
The club posted a statement to their Instagram confirming the closure, which comes after recent discussions with students, local authorities, and York Students’ Union representatives.
As part of their safety commitment, the venue will be implementing several changes ahead of their next student night session, including free drink covers and enhanced security measures.
The relaunch of Paradiso, on 28 March, will see additional security personnel who have undergone comprehensive training in customer welfare and drink spiking prevention.
There will also be a student support team in hi-vis, as well as a more diverse security team with both male and female staff members.
Further additions include enhanced searches, dedicated welfare officers, street marshals, and welfare trained toilet attendants.
Enhanced safety measures will also be introduced, including staff body cameras, 38 CCTV cameras, bag searches, clearer signage, and weekly management meetings.
To combat drink spiking, Club Salvation will be offering free Spikey bottle tops and drink covers, and free bottled water for anyone who needs it.
The venue has also put up spiking awareness posters in the toilet, which provide key information, and has introduced a dedicated welfare email where concerns can be shared.
In the statement released to Instagram, Club Salvation said, “To ensure continuous improvement, we are introducing weekly management meetings to address student safety concerns and explore ways to enhance the club environment.
“Additionally, a York Student’s Union representative will be present at the venue on Wednesdays and Fridays to assist students.
“We remain fully committed to working with local authorities, universities, and student organisations, with a priority on providing the safest and most enjoyable experience possible.”
A North Yorkshire Police spokesperson said: “We have a number of active investigations into alleged spiking offences that have occurred within Club Salvation. The venue is supporting our investigation and has provided CCTV footage to help us build evidence.
“Our dedicated licensing team work closely with premises in the city and have schemes in place to ensure people’s safety within the night-time economy in York.
“Spiking investigations are complex. We urge anyone who thinks they have been a victim of spiking to come forwards as soon as possible. It’s important that we are aware of incidents in order for us to pursue any criminally on an individual basis.”
Club Salvation has urged anyone with concerns to report them either to the club, the appropriate authorities, or the SU’s official reporting form to facilitate a comprehensive investigation.
They added, “We look forward to welcoming you back to Paradiso on Friday 28th March.”