A Prince George business group is looking to reopen the former Generator night club with longer liquor service and exotic dancers, under the name Ignite Night Club.
City council voted in support of a proposal by Tandoori Nation Restaurants Ltd. to extend the business’s liquor service hours from 9 a.m. to 1 a.m. daily to 9 a.m. to 3 a.m. daily. Council’s support for the change will be forwarded to the B.C. Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch, which has the final authority over changes to liquor licences. Under the proposed change, the maximum capacity of the nightclub would remain at 250 patrons.
Paladin Consultants outlined the business model for Ignite Night Club in a letter submitted to city council on behalf of the ownership group. The club has been closed since 2017.
“Professional Exotic Dancers will provide entertainment. Management will provide and brief the dancers on Ignite(‘s) house policy regarding performances and to reinforce the no contact rule with patrons,” the letter says. “We do not view Ignite as the general definition of a ‘Gentleman’s Club.’ We view it as an Entertainment Venue with a focus on both men and women in the 25 to 60 year age group.”
In addition to exotic dancers, the owners plan to hold live music on special events throughout the year. Currently there are no other venues offering comparable services in the city, the letter says.
“Our mission is to create a high-end nightclub experience that exceeds clients’ expectations by offering exceptional levels of service, entertainment and social activities in a safe, comfortable and relaxed atmosphere,” the letter says. “We will be offering our patrons a high energy, safe environment to socialize, dance and be entertained… It is our belief that Ignite will fill a void that has been lacking in Downtown Prince George.”
The security plan for the proposed nightclub includes security cameras inside and outside the building, one male and one female security guard positioned at the door, use of identification scanners, a dress code and six security guards plus a security manager inside the club during peak hours. In addition, the club will not promote discounted drinks and all staff will receive liquor service training on a consistent basis.
“Our vision to become the preeminent lounge, nightclub and entertainment centre in Prince George,” the letter says.
According to a city staff report, council approved a liquor licence for the proposed club on Aug. 17, 2020. The liquor service hours of 9 a.m. to 1 a.m. daily were approved at that time.
“The nearest liquor primary establishment is the Lambda Cabaret (1177 3rd Avenue), which is located approximately 65 m east of the subject property. Both the subject property and Lambda Cabaret, have existing licenses for Liquor Primary Establishments,” the staff report says. “Administration supports this application as the proposed extension to liquor service hours is consistent with (City of Prince George Liquor and Cannabis License Policy) and (Official Community Plan) direction and is not expected to significantly impact the surrounding uses.”
