NOTORIOUS nightspot Panama Jacks is reopening under a new name in a bid to wave goodbye to troublemakers.

Dave Lawrenson, designated premises supervisor, said the new bar, named Oscar’s, on Bridge Street would involve table service and ‘VIP treatment’.

He said: “We are creating something different for the town. People will be coming in earlier and sitting down and ordering a drink which will be brought to them.

“People shied away from Panama Jacks but we have created something different for people to sample. We got an image that we don’t want any more. Oscar’s will promote a safer night out.

New steps to improve the atmosphere include completely new door staff that will greet revellers and provide a ‘new set of eyes for the scene’, a CCTV system, an earlier opening time, more seating, quieter music, private booths and strong links with the police.

The week long revamp was implemented following a licensing hearing held by Warrington Borough Council in April.

The hearing took place due to an incident in December which saw the establishment temporarily closed so steps could be taken to keep people safe.

He added: “If we refuse somebody it is common courtesy to let them know why we have refused them. Most people under 25 can expect to be asked for ID and people who are too drunk won’t be served.

“People causing trouble won’t be welcome. We reserve the right to refuse anyone who will cause trouble.”

Acting Insp Neil Drum, of the Town Centre NPT, praised the management of Oscar’s for changing the layout of the venue, enhancing the CCTV and employing new door staff.

He said: “These are positive steps for the police, for the customers and for Oscar’s to make Warrington a safer place.

“There were some incidents and that is why the decision was made to rebrand and refurbish the bar but it is for the right reasons.”

He said that each weekend punters could expect to see at least one sergeant and four bobbies on the streets in the town centre.

Acting Insp Drum said: “I make sure there is enough officers on the streets and I can see it only as a positive thing. It is right for there to be a police presence and it should give confidence to staff and the public.”

The relaunched bar will open tomorrow, Friday.