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Relaxation Centre to close in new year
One of Bristol’s most well-known spas, the Relaxation Centre in Clifton, is to close in the new year, it was revealed today.
The spa and treatment centre on All Saints Road has celebrated its 20th anniversary in the last year, but will gradually close over the next few months – finally closing for the last time in March 2015.
A spokeswoman for the centre said the owner of the business was determined to sell the business, which was said to not be profitable enough in the short to medium term to persuade him to maintain his interest.
In August last year, the future of the centre was in doubt after Richard Hicks’ attempts to secure a deal to buy the business fell through. Unless a new owner was quickly found, the centre would have closed at the end of November 2013.
Mr Hicks was able to resurrect a last-minute deal, retaining ownership of the building, allowing a new partnership with a Bristol businessman to secure the long-term future of the centre.
But despite a lavish refurbishment programme this year, and further plans for new facilities in 2015, Hicks has decided he will sell.
Sophie Barford, from the Relaxation Centre, said: “Staff were told last week about the decision to sell. Unfortunately, we have nowhere else to go.
“We went through this uncertainty last year. While the owner seemed more open to suggestions to ways to save the business, it seems much more final now.”
A statement on the Relaxation Centre website read: “It is with great regret that we need to inform you that from April 1, 2015, The Relaxation Centre will cease to operate from its current location in Clifton.
“Our landlord requires the business to vacate the building before he puts it up for sale and since we do not have alternative premises, it is likely that – short of a miracle – this wonderful facility will close permanently.
“This is doubly upsetting as it is only a year since we narrowly escaped closure just one year ago, we have since changed ownership and were lined up for refurbishment and expansion. However, circumstances have overtaken us and we are now bowing to the inevitable.
“Our concern is to give our customers the opportunity to use this beautiful place before it disappears and in particular, to redeem any outstanding vouchers.
is needed now More than ever
“We are proud of our 21-year heritage, of the loyalty of our friends and customers and of the unique experience we have had the privilege to offer. It has been a pleasure keeping Bristol relaxed.”
For more details about the closure programme and when the spa will remain open, visit the Relaxation Centre website.
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