Casa set to open

Stafford's nightlife is due to be transformed in time for Christmas with the opening of a new night venue.

The iconic Hacienda building is due to open in November after a complete transformation which has made it one of the most talked about buildings in the town.

The builders protective facade has been taken down to reveal a bright white exterior akin to a Spanish building.

It will be called Casa for "home" and the Mediterranean influence continues indoors were balconies and terraces will give customers the chance to enjoy the Stafford vista while enjoying their tapas and wine.

The new eatery and bar will be in direct competition with its neighbour the Chicago Rock Cafe which is also due to undergo some adaptations.

The existing entrance from Bridge Street is expected to move round the corner giving customers somewhere to shelter and offering a more direct route to awaiting taxis.

But Casa owners Nick Wiks, Dave Malia and Jack Peters, of Lounge Leisure Ltd are planning a series of glittering launch events with celebrities and exclusive guest lists to guarantee their £1 million re-design of the Hacienda is worth while.

They are hoping to make it Stafford's number one night spot.

Mr Peters, former manager of the Zanzibar nightclub in Newport Road, claimed: "This building will be full of celebrities and VIPs and we are going to have an amazing schedule of opening events.

"There is a real buzz about the opening. It will be soon, that's all I'm saying at the minute."

There will also be a VIP room and the whole venue will have a capacity of 500.

Mr Peters said it has all been worth it. He described the inside as a staggering large space and said the glamourous champagne terrace promises to give it a unique atmosphere.

The venue has permission to open from 9am each day until 6am on Bank Holidays, 4am on Fridays and Saturdays, and 2am from Sunday to Thursday. Bridge Street is also due to get a complete overhaul next year when it becomes a largely pedestrianised zone.

It will be closed to most through traffic, only buses, bikes, delivery vehicles, and taxis will be allowed through.

The complete facelift will see new distinctive brick paving, decorative cast iron bollards and flower containers, plus tree planting and more street lighting making it an ideal setting for those seeking evening entertainment.