The boss of a city centre bowling alley said they are gearing up for a busy time post-Covid.
The Lane7 bowling alley in Leicester opened in October 2020, but in the months that followed was subjected to various Government imposed lockdowns and restrictions.
It was launched in the historic former Leicester Central railway station, just off the city’s inner ring road, which was part of a £50 million Great Central Square regeneration scheme in the city, which also includes a hotel, aparthotel and offices.
Lane7 opened its first site in Newcastle eight years ago and now has late night bowling and gaming venues across England and Scotland.
The Leicester operation has seven bars, street food traders, gaming and giant screens.
Chief operating officer Graeme Smith said the Leicester Central site was now open to full capacity and launching a line-up of events throughout the autumn.
He said: “The Covid guidelines of groups of six saw the business very busy but unfortunately we couldn’t provide the service standards that we aspire to.
“The site was built for customers to free roam, walk around and order at the many bars and food vendors.
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“But with restrictions and due to the size of building table service proved difficult.
“That is hopefully behind us, and we can now operate our Leicester site as it was always supposed to be which is with a pipeline of events both the site and Leicester deserve.”
The autumn line-up features everything from bottomless brunches to vintage fairs and player-hosted live sports screenings.
The 30,000 sq ft former railway station has 11 bowling lanes across 2 levels, an interactive crazy golf experience, shuffleboard, beer pong, pool, ping pong and arcade games.
A former goods yard area has been turned into Leicester’s first permanent street food court, with a selection of independent traders taking up residency.
Customers can enjoy food Deckards, Thai Express and Falaughfel, as well as waffles and sweet treats from Fika and cocktails in Jamie’s Lady Garden.
There is also a Big Bar serving Leicester Central beer brewed by Framework Brewery, and an alcoholic slushie bar called Liquorette.
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