A MINI-golf business selling booze and “fun for residents of all ages” will re-open on Saturday after a major revamp.
Neon 9s, formerly Destination Golf, has rebranded and installed TV screens, a bar, and kitted out the golf course in neon lights in a bid to attract an older audience.
The venue initially opened in the Eastgate Shopping Centre as a dinosaur mini-golf attraction but struggled to attract business despite success in school holidays.
Now, owner Luke Tyler is confident it will prove a huge hit and has installed big TVs for a “summer of sport” including Euro 2024 and the Paris Olympics.
The venue also has a bar for parents and young adults, so they can enjoy a “pint and a punt” around the mini-golf course.
Luke said: “I had initially opened the venue as Jurassica Golf in October last year and we had nothing but five star reviews for this attraction, but now we simply want to offer something that would be more relevant to all age groups.”
“Our passion to bring Basildon something great, comes from our pride and dedication of being the best.
“Between myself and my team, we have won some of the most prestigious awards for building entertainment venues.
“Previously we won Sussex tourist attraction of the year and also tourist attraction of the year 2019 for Brighton and Hove.
“Now we want to start making our mark in Basildon.
“Eastgate Shopping Centre has also been nothing but supportive and agreed to extend Neon 9s opening hours till 8pm each night, except on Sundays.”
The business will re-open on Saturday after bosses spent weeks carry out the refurbishment.
Eastgate centre manager, Lee Spencer, added: “I am looking forward to the opening of Neon 9s and seeing what the guys have created.
“This fit out will be a great addition to the Eastgate Centre and to the wider Basildon town, especially with the soon to be opened Vue cinema, more food restaurants coming on-line and now the creation of Neon 9’s.
“There is so much regeneration happening in Basildon over the coming years and it’s such a privilege to be a part of that.”
Neon 9s opening hours will be Wednesday to Friday 12pm til 8pm, with an earlier opening of 10am on Saturday and an earlier close of 3.30pm on Sunday.
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