If the reports are true, the announcement would be deeply frustrating for Watford and Dean would urge everyone involved to look at how we could save the nightclub for the sake of our town’s nighttime economy.
In his recent discussion with the owners of Pryzm, REKOM, he understands no final decision has been made so will continue to offer to do what he can to keep the nightclub open. His is also aware that attendance has been reduced this year which does seem to be a national trend but does not mean nightclubs don’t continue to hold an important role for young people everywhere.
He is proud of the campaign he led last year to stop the nightclub closing at the start of the year. He worked closely with the dedicated staff team at Pryzm, and the campaign was widely supported by local residents and businesses alike. The very reason he fought so hard was to protect the staff and the overall night time economy in Watford. This includes taxi drivers and small businesses who heavily rely on the footfall to and from the nightclub.
He will continue to raise the awareness of the importance of our nighttime economy and do all he can to protect our historic high street. He feels it would be a shame if we lost an iconic part of our history simply to be replaced with yet another tower block which will do nothing to contribute to the footfall in our town or protect jobs and livelihoods.
History of the campaign
As soon as he heard about the potential to redevelop the site which Pryzm occupies into homes, he spoke out against the plans to close our much-loved nightclub.
There was an overwhelming response to his campaign, and he is so grateful to every resident who got in touch to add their support. He was pleased to present the petition to Parliament showing the strength of feeling across Watford and held his own debate to ask the Minister for Business what support could be put in place. He thought we had a reprise as the venue had signed a 5 year lease in December 2022.
The Pryzm site has a long history in Watford, and has previously been home to Destiny, Oceana, Kudos, Paradise Lost and Baileys. It employs more than 100 members of staff and generates vital business for neighbouring bars, restaurants, takeaways, and local taxi firms, who have expressed huge concerns about how this would severely impact their businesses.
It is estimated that around £170,000 per annum is spent in town on an average Saturday night as a direct result of Pryzm. The loss of the club would have a real impact on the wider economic and social stability of the town.
As the only town-based nightclub in Hertfordshire, it is imperative that it is saved to protect jobs and a place for residents to visit.
Links to previous articles www.deanrussell.co.uk/pryzm
