Jim Wells comment on Coach nightclub closure prompts furious reaction

Jim Wells said news of the closure of iconic Banbridge venue ‘The Coach’ would be a relief to local residents.

The nightclub, bar and restaurant complex, which has been a fixture in the town’s nightlife since the 1970s announced it’s permanent closure on Wednesday night stating: “It is with a very heavy heart that the directors of Coach Nightclub have been left with no other option but to permanently close Coach. The ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, together with no foreseeable opening date for the nightclub industry, has left the business in an untenable position.”

The complex is understood to employ over 50 staff as well as additional part-time roles.

But on his Facebook page Mr Wells said, “Many local residents will be relieved to learn of the permanent closure of The Coach nightclub in Banbridge.”

His comment prompted over 400 responses, most in support of the nightclub and many describing the DUP man’s comment as ‘insensitive’ and ‘disgraceful’.

Mr Wells then responded; “It is interesting to note that nobody who is criticizing my comment about the closure of the Coach in Banbridge lives anywhere near it.”

But this brought further comments from people saying they did live close-by.

“I’ve lived within a five minute walk of the Coach for 30 years off and on and I think it’s a shame for the local economy that its had to close, I understand that a handful of residents might be glad but I think your comments are insensitive considering the economic damage it will do to the town,” said one local resident.