Little Mix starJade Thirlwall's Arbeia bar in South Shields reveals reopening plans after seven months closed

Arbeia in Ocean Road has been closed since October after the North East was placed under tough Tier 2 restrictions, which is said left it with no choice but to shut down.

But now as restrictions are set to ease further on May 17 allowing hospitality to reopen indoors, Arbeia has confirmed it will reopen.

In a message to customers on its Facebook page, Arbeia said that it will be open from 8am until late every day and said it will be serving hot drinks from Tynemouth Coffee Company.

“It’s been seven long months and we can’t wait to welcome you back,” a bar spokesman said.

"On Monday, May 17 we will be open from 8am until late, every day.

"Join us for a tea or coffee on your way to work, or bring your laptop and take advantage of our free refills.

“From Thursday to Sunday we will have live music and DJs to entertain you whilst you enjoy a cocktail or 10.

"We can’t raise the roof just yet, but we’ve specially selected some perfect entertainment for you to sit back and enjoy.”

Related: Little Mix star Jade Thirlwall back in South Shields as she meets the illustrator behind new artwork in Arbeia bar

The bar has also promised a new cocktail menu and said that customers will be able to use the w8r.app to order drinks from their table.

It stressed that social distancing and Government guidelines will be followed in full, with all customers will be required to wear a face mask and sign in with track and trace.

The bar will be accepting walk-in customers only.

Arbeia has been a popular town centre venue since it opened in November 2019.

Originally named Red Door, the bar changed its name in February 2020 and expanded with a new nightclub next door called Industry.

The new outdoor seating area at Arbeia in South Shields can cater for up to 16 people.

Celebrity guests have been known to enjoy a night out at the venue, including Little Mix band mates Perrie Edwards and Leigh-Anne Pinnock.

South Shields singer Joe McElderry and Newcastle United player Andy Carroll also attended the bar’s opening night.

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