Shock closure of popular Salty’s

The future of one of West Wight’s top entertainment venues is in doubt.

Salty’s, Yarmouth, is closing this weekend and the leaseholders say they ‘are exploring opportunities’ for next year.

Shocked staff were this week told they would be made redundant in the lead-up to Christmas when normally the bar and restaurant stays open until the New Year.

This year marks the second season for Salty’s, in Quay Street, under the ownership of AKA Restaurants – who also own The Hut in Colwell.

A spokesman said: “We have made the decision to close Salty’s doors at the end of this week, earlier than anticipated this year, as a financial business decision.

“We are exploring opportunities for Salty’s to ensure it re-opens next spring, in its current guise or another, we are still working through the details and will give a full update once plans are finalised.

“We would like to thank our amazing team of staff who have worked incredibly hard this season, which we are very grateful for. We also thank all of the guests who came to dine and party with us this year.

“Salty’s continues to remain open for the rest of this week and our last day of normal business will be Sunday (September 28). We look forward to welcoming guests for the rest of this week for lunch or dinner, live music on Friday and Saturday night, and of course a squiggle on the ceiling!”

The business was previously run by Ed and Melanie Panek from 2020 to 2024 before being sold due to health reasons.

The freehold was bought by Yarmouth Harbour Commissioners and Harbour Master, Tim Adams, said: “I’m not aware of any plans the tenants have.

Meanwhile, FuBar, in Union Street, Ryde, has announced it will close its doors for the last time tomorrow (Saturday).

Company director Dani Johnson-Harriman said the sad decision was made due to deteriorating conditions of the building, as well as the rising cost of suppliers and the general cost of living.

An auction will be held on Wednesday (October 1), with doors opening at 5pm and bidding starting at 7pm. Furniture and fittings to pictures and the decorative items that gave FuBar its unique character, everything must go.