Nightclubs prohibited from opening in the CBD

May 1, 2025 9:50 pm | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook

By Adorina Massing.

Nightclubs operating in the Central Business District (CBD) will have to relocate, as instructed by the Port Vila City Council (PVCC) and the Town Mayor’s order for midnight curfews.

PVCC Secretary Pauline Timothy revealed that the order was passed last year and announced by the Lord Mayor of Port Vila, Jenny Regenvanu, who outlined the measures to ensure the safety and security of the public by reducing nightclub operating hours and imposing a midnight curfew.

The PVCC has been working with relevant authorities to assess nightclubs that have become hotspots for illegal activities, violence, and fatalities.

Secretary Timothy said nightclub businesses operating in the CBD will need to relocate outside of town.

A manager from a popular nightclub in the CBD expressed concern, saying they were not consulted and had not received any information about the new regulation.

He said they attempted to renew their liquor licence, but the Municipality Bylaw Officer refused, noting that nightclubs in the CBD are prohibited from reopening.

“It’s very difficult for our 26 staff—most of them haven’t found a new job,” he said.

He questioned why the PVCC did not give them a notice period to relocate and how much it would have cost the city to allow them time to find a new venue and move out.

“We have waited more than four months with no revenue to reopen. Why did they wait until the other businesses reopened to tell us to shut down?”

Questions remain as to whether this will also affect bars and casinos in the CBD.