A GAY sauna and spa in the heart of Southampton has permanently closed its doors.
Pink Broadway in East Street has welcomed customers for more than two decades.
But in a shock announcement made on social media, the venue said it has ceased operations. The site has been closed since January 8.
In an online post, the owners said: “Due to circumstances beyond our control, Pink Broadway Limited will cease trading with immediate effect.
“We are truly sorry there has been no advanced notice or warning regarding this.”
They added: “Any relevant information will be published here on our website in due course.”
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The sauna was popular with city residents and visitors alike, many of whom have taken to social media to express their sadness at the unexpected news.
One person described the news as “very sad.”
He said: “[I] have had many a good time in PB and will be missed.”
Another commenter said: “Best sauna and so sad it is no more. Thank you for 21 years.”
One visitor used to travel from Fareham to enjoy the facilities on offer.
He said: “Sorry to see this news, used to visit when I lived in Fareham.
“Was always a friendly welcome, impeccable standards, and great facilities.
“Sending all the team my best wishes for the future.”
The sauna was previously under threat of closure in 2021 after its insurer, Markerstudy, did not renew the sauna’s liability insurance policy.
As reported in PinkNews in 2021, owner Nick Batt attempted to renew his insurance policy from November 2020 until the start of 2021.
He sought help from multiple brokers and insurers, as well as several MPs but to no avail.
At the time Nick spoke of his fears of closing the sauna permanently.
He told PinkNews: “The potential loss will have a huge effect on my customers and friends.
“London has lost seven saunas this year, and I don’t want to end up closing for good.”
According to Markerstudy, its decision was a result of it ending the offering of commercial property insurance of any type in December 2019.
Pink Broadway has been contacted for a comment.
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