The Keys pub in Darlington to close down this weekend, say staff

Based on Skinnergate, the pub and restaurant was opened in 2014 after a year-long project to restore it. Both the restaurant and nightclub cost more than £1m.

The news follows people being unable to access The Key's Facebook page and website.

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It first opened following the success of similar venues in Yarm and Middlesbrough, but these are believed to be unaffected by the shutdown.

When the club first opened, all of their produce for their “Market Menu” was sourced from Darlington’s markets.

• The Northern Echo has approached the venue’s owners for comment.