ROCKWATER will remain closed until Friday lunchtime after a number of staff tested positive for coronavirus or were told to self-isolate.

On Monday, the boss of the Hove seafront venue said about ten workers over the past week had tested positive and roughly 40 have been contacted by track and trace.

But after a growing number of Covid cases in Brighton and Hove and among staff, Luke Davis announced the venue would remain closed until Friday lunchtime.

Rockwater employs 270 staff members - many of which are of an age which makes them less likely to have had a Covid vaccine.

In the seven days until June 24, the rate in cases for those aged between 15-29 in Brighton and Hove is 447 cases per 100,000 residents.

The Argus: Luke Davis is behind Rockwater in HoveLuke Davis is behind Rockwater in Hove

Mr Davis said during their closure a deep clean of the venue will be carried out, all staff will undergo PCR tests and be given paid time off to get vaccinated.

A statement from the venue said: “We have taken the decision to extend our business closure in light of the growing number of Covid cases highlighted in the Brighton & Hove area, and with a small number of our own staff testing positive, until Friday lunchtime.

“During this time, we are undertaking a deep clean of all areas of Rockwater, providing time for our 270 team members to undergo PCR tests before being allowed back to work, providing paid time off for our team members to get vaccinated if they wish to do so, analysing our Covid policies and procedures to ensure they are as robust as possible, and providing refresher training for our team on Covid safety.

“We would like to apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.

“Please note all customers with reservations during this time are being contacted, events and Rockwater Life classes on the deck are being cancelled, and our Rockwater Life practitioners will be in touch with those booked onto classes.

“We look forward to safely welcoming you back to us very soon.”