An acclaimed Dundee nightclub is having to restrict its opening hours after police began limiting the number of people allowed in.
It is understood police started capping the number of people allowed into The Reading Rooms each night due to concerns about drug use inside the venue.
Officers began probing the club after a woman reported she had been the victim of an alleged sexual assault following a night out there.
The Reading Rooms normally has a capacity of 450 but police are refusing to let more than 200 patrons inside at a time.
This has left promoters responsible for individual club nights struggling to meet their overheads and unable to sell tickets for events in advance in case more people than are permitted purchase them and turn up.
The alleged attack is understood to have taken place at a private flat and not inside the Blackscroft nightclub.
A statement posted by The Reading Rooms on Wednesday said: “We regret to inform you that the Reading Rooms will be closed this coming Thursday and Friday.
“The venue will reopen again on Saturday from 9pm for Jute City Jam.
“We have made the tough decision for these closures due to difficulties operating under limitations set upon the venue by the authorities.
“A full statement will be issued in the coming days. If you would like to find out more and show your support, please attend the venue for Jute City Jam this coming Saturday.
“We sincerely appreciate your understanding and continued support.”
A petition was set up by club regulars recently, demanding support for the nightclub.
Organisers said was being pressurised by the authorities due to the “gentrification” of the area.
It received more than 7,000 signatures before it was taken down at the behest of the club.
Chief Inspector Nicola Russell of Police Scotland’s Tayside Division said: “In order for Police Scotland to ensure public safety one of our main duties especially during night-time economy is to check how bars and clubs are being run in Dundee.
“Officers work closely with partner agencies and with all licensed premises to provide support and advice on the steps that staff can take to prevent crime, drug misuse and alcohol related violence on their premises as they have a responsibility to provide a safe environment for people to enjoy their day or night out.
“Any issues identified may be reported to the local authority licensing board or the Procurator Fiscal.”
Jim Grieve, who runs The Reading Rooms with his brother Grant, declined to comment.
The club has brought a number of big names to Dundee, including legendary reggae artists Lee “Scratch” Perry and The Congos, hip-hop pioneer Afrika Bambaataa and DJ Mr Scruff.
