Koncept Nightclub in downtown Nanaimo is slated to re-open on Saturday, June 20 despite mixed messages from health authorities. (Ian Holmes/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By Alex Rawnsley

GREEN LIGHT

Nanaimo nightclub faces uncertain future, threats of violence ahead of planned re-opening

Jun 18, 2020 | 4:10 PM

NANAIMO — A local nightclub is gearing up to open for the first time in three months under a cloud of confusion.

Koncept Nightclub in Nanaimo’s downtown will re-open on Saturday, June 20 despite mixed messages and amended health orders from the province.

Sebastian Barkovic, co-owner of Koncept, told NanaimoNewsNOW it was a surprise when he was given the green light after reaching out to health authorities earlier in the month.

“We’re going to do everything we can so people can enjoy themselves in a safe manner,” Barkovic said. “I feel like we’re on the front lines. We might get taken out or we might survive and carve a way for everyone else.”

Island Health confirmed they’ve assisted Koncept Nightclub to meet re-opening requirements from a support and educational perspective.

short-term rentals

Nanaimo clarifies regulations for short-term rental users and operators

17h ago

storm damage

BC Hydro says power almost fully restored after B.C. windstorms

Nov 23, 2024

another medal

Nanaimo skateboarder earns podium finish at unique California event

Nov 23, 2024

The health authority said they do not approve re-opening plans but do conduct random inspections after businesses resume.

Barkovic pointed to his liquor primary business license and a June 10 change to a public health order pertaining to restaurants and pubs as to why he’s allowed to re-open.

The order adjusted occupancy limits to venue-specific numbers rather than a blanket 50 per cent capacity, provided protections such as plexi-glass shields and physical distancing measures were in place.

Barkovic said he’s transformed his dance floor into seating space accommodating five booths and two additional tables, each seating a maximum of six people. Glow-in-the-dark lines painted on the floor will guide foot traffic and Barkovic said staff on the floor will enforce public health orders.

The club also posted their full public health plan on social media on Wednesday.

“Either we’re going to get a lot of backlash or we’re going to have the community come around us and have a safe, enjoyable, fun night out. I don’t know what to expect,” Barkovic said.

While nightclubs as dance venues must remain closed under phase two of the restart plan, the ministry of health confirmed to NanaimoNewsNOW many are adjusting their business to align more with pubs under the amended order.

According to Worksafe BC, nightclubs fall under the same restrictions and requirements as restaurants and pubs and are permitted to re-open provided they follow the updated health orders.

“This order provides a number of requirements for these establishments, including how occupancy limits must be calculated, table and seating configurations, the use and configuration of barriers,” Worksafe BC said in a statement to NanaimoNewsNOW.

However, provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry said on Tuesday, June 16 indoor areas with poor ventilation and close contact over a long period of time are high risk for transmitting COVID-19.

A day prior, Dr. Henry addressed nightclubs directly as some re-opened under the pub and restaurant guidelines.

“It is going to be challenging because we know there are some things like dance floors that are not going to happen right now,” Dr. Henry said.

Since announcing their pending return on social media in early June, Barkovic said they’ve received a torrent of backlash and threats from people and surrounding businesses.

Barkovic said he is “doubling down” on re-opening Saturday night under approved safety plans.

While most pubs have re-opened in Nanaimo, Koncept Nightclub will be one of the first venues with a dance floor to welcome customers following a four-month hiatus.

alex.rawnsley@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @alexrawnsley