FEATURE
UNLOCKING THE KEYS
In anticipation of the planned final phase of lockdown relaxation , the nightclub at The Keys , Yarm , is currently undergoing a major renovation , providing a cuttingedge audio-visual experience . Preparations are already in place to host club nights and DJ sets which have been long postponed due to Covid-19 and the owners are hoping to cement the club ’ s place in Yarm ’ s nightlife as quickly as possible .
Additionally , with many celebrations forced to be on hold throughout 2020 , The Keys is seeing an increase in bookings for private events as customers look for a venue to hold wedding receptions , parties , christenings , and get-togethers .
“ We have invested heavily in a new sound and light system which includes two high-definition video walls . We did consider changing the light-up dance floor , but it just wouldn ’ t be The Keys without it ,” says general manager Jake .
Under the ownership of the Powell family , and overseen by manager Jake , the priority for The Keys for the last two months has been to welcome new and returning customers as safely as possible .
This has meant following all social distancing and mask guidelines , regular sanitisation , reconfiguring table layouts , and embracing new procedures for customer-facing staff members .
“ Since lockdown ended on April 12 , the management and staff at The Keys have been working hard to reclaim our place at the heart of Yarm High Street ,” says Jake .
Refocusing on taking bookings online via The Keys website and allocating timeslots to tables has allowed the restaurant and bar to safely manage the re-emerging customer base .
During the first phase out of lockdown , The Keys took advantage of its large garden area , with adjoining covered
Welcome - The Keys is a popular nightspot in Yarm .
Changes - The Keys in Yarm .
pergola , to welcome guests outdoors .
The further relaxation of Covid rules on May 17 allowed customers back into the spacious restaurant and dining room areas , resulting in both an increase in booking capacity and a reduction in weather-related cancellations .
Lockdown as a whole offered an opportunity to revisit and revamp all areas of the business . One example of this is the kitchen .
There is a completely new kitchen team , led by head chef Joe , who brings with him a wealth of experience from some of the county ’ s top restaurants .
It is the team ’ s ambition to become one of Yarm ’ s foremost destinations for highquality , home-cooked food .
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