A NIGHTCLUB in the centre of Southend is set to close to undergo a major transformation – with plans afoot for it to become a Popworld.

Rhythm Room, in Warrior Square, will close on January 29 for just over a month so it can undergo a refurbishment and be rebranded.

Popworld is a growing chain of clubs, with sites up and down the country.

Rhythm Room replaced the old Dick De Vignes nightclub, a longstanding venue in the city centre that ran for roughly 17 years.

Louisa Wright, 36, from Southend, said: “I’ve been to a Popworld in London and think it will be good to have something different in Southend.

“It sounds like a bit of a different vibe and quite fun. I think it could work well there and the closet thing we have like this is Chelmsford.”

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In September 2021, it was announced Dick De Vigne’s was sold by estate agents Dedman Gray after it was run by the club owner of the same name for 17 years and became one of the city’s most loved clubs.

It was formerly Chicago Rock, which Mr De Vigne then converted to Seymours, and then some years later to the iconic nightclub.

Popworld has clubs in Chelmsford, London and a growing number of city centres, and describes itself as a late-night bar “with a difference”.

Mr De Vigne said: “I think it’s a good use and move for the business. It’s good to have all the entertainment in one place in Southend.

“This gives some variation for customers. Southend is a hard place now for business and we’ve seen lots of change.

“I still think it’s good to have the entertainment in one place with Club MooMoos opposite and I think it will work well.”

Rhythm Rooms posted on Facebook: “Join us for our closing weekend of January 27 and 28 as we get ready for a substantial refurbishment.

“We hope you’re ready for Southend nightlife to Pop off.

Watch this space.”

A spokesperson from Rhythm Room said: “We are excited to announce that the Popworld party is coming to Southend.

“Rhythm Room will be closing for a few weeks, while it undergoes a transformation.

“The venue will be reopening as the iconic Popworld in early March, keep your eyes peeled for updates and be sure to follow our news on social media.”