Music returns to cult venue JB's
Former Black Country rock club JB's was given the seal of approval from revellers as it reopened its doors. The cult music venue in Dudley re-opened on Saturday.
The Castle Hill club, where the likes of Led Zeppelin's Robert Plant and U2 played, has undergone a 10-month, six-figure restoration project and will hold live music and tribute nights, as well as staging conferences, wedding receptions and banquet parties at the venue. Tribute acts to Michael Buble, Amy Winehouse and Pink performed.
Debbie Grove, aged 47, of Caldmore, Walsall, was with partner Phil Wheeler, 46. She said: "We used to come years ago. I am really surprised with what they have done to the place." Hypnotherapist Mick Payton, 59, of Highgate, Walsall, said: "They have done an amazing job, but it is relative – the old place was amazing for what that did and this is amazing for what this is doing.
"They have tried to give the place a new life and purpose and they should succeed because they have spent the money on it."
IT worker Sue Kendrick, 51, from Highgate in Walsall, said: "I have been here in the past to see rock bands. I think this is a good use of the building."
JB's closed in January 2011 after going into administration.
It was auctioned for £225,000 and is owned by Ramesh Kumar Ahir, who took over in October.
The Northamptonshire-based businessman has owned music and banqueting venues for three decades as well as property and retail businesses.
He said: "We are very pleased. We are trying to keep it for everybody, for families, weddings, birthdays and corporate events."
