Former Pravda bar in Newcastle to become new esports venue

The former Pravda nightclub, on the Quayside in Newcastle, has stood frozen in time since its closure, with the venue last being occupied in 2009. 

But now, the Emporium Leisure Group has announced that it has taken over the venue to create a “world-class esports and gaming experience”.

The bar, located directly opposite three hotels including a Travelodge, is one of three planned for the North East, the other two being in Alnwick and Morpeth,

Emporium Leisure Group is planning a full catering kitchen, event space, and on and off alcohol sales, as well as the latest in gaming technology. 

The catering operation will allow for local independent traders to set up, allowing for support of other nearby operators and “creating a more sustainable night-time economy”. 

While the planned venue will focus on esports, it will also be capable of hosting tech events, tech product launches, music events and more, for up to 500 people. 

The venue’s planned operating hours will start at 8am, offering a breakfast range to early morning commuters, with a strong daytime offer of food, drink and refreshments until 11pm, with later opening at weekends.

It will also team up with an associated UT support provider to offer onsite sales, support and service of computers and gaming tech.

Mark Convery of Sanderson Weatherall, who marketed the property on behalf of a private owner, said: “We are delighted to announce the successful completion of the former Pravda Bar, marking a major milestone for our client after the property stood vacant since 2009 despite multiple agencies previously being appointed. 

“Securing an occupier for this prominent riverside location highlights our team’s persistence, market reach, and strategic approach. We wish the new occupier every success in their venture and look forward to seeing this iconic site brought back to life.“

Ken Mosley of Emporium Leisure Group said: “This represents a massive investment in esports infrastructure across North-East England as we build an elite eSports community. 

“We acknowledge some operators are struggling in the current economic climate, but our agility and multi revenue approach will ensure our venues remain viable while providing world class systems and opportunities for high-end elite gaming.”