Hundreds of people have been debating the future of one of the region's most popular nightclub's in the wake of its sudden closure.

The Ocean Rooms in Gorleston will shut down after having gone into administration, marking an end to three generations of family ownership.

The current operators, Kelly Edwards and her cousin Ben Jay, called their current situation "untenable" due to the long-lasting effects of the cost of living crisis and the pandemic.

Locals have been speculating about the future of the site, with most people hoping the venue remains a nightclub.

Jake Bensly said: "Keep it a night club/music venue. But make it a similar to the Waterfront in Norwich where there are themed music/genre nights, and a large focus on bands/gigs."

Great Yarmouth Mercury: Blur played a 'secret' gig on the Ocean Room stage at the peak of Britpop in 1995. Blur played a 'secret' gig on the Ocean Room stage at the peak of Britpop in 1995. (Image: Archant)

READ MORE: Devastated revellers react after shock closure of beloved nightclub

His idea was echoed by Dave Sommers who said a venue of that size "could not survive on two nights per week trading".

"I suggested that it could be our version of the Waterfront during the week. Upcoming/bands that appeal to students."

He mentioned the proximity of the East Coast College campuses in Great Yarmouth and Lowestoft as well as "those generally interested in seeing live bands".

Joanne Crosby said the building needs "a good furniture update" but should be kept as a club with regular local bands and singers, as well as charity events.

She added that the venue "used to be busy back in the 80s" with disco Monday, Thursday and Fridays "but definitely needs on the ball bouncers" to stop 16-year-olds getting in.

Great Yarmouth Mercury: A.B.C. showgirls entertain at the disco in 1977. A.B.C. showgirls entertain at the disco in 1977. (Image: Archant Library)

READ MORE: Gorleston dance students saved from storm by Ocean Room

Beth Spurgeon said: "I would like someone to buy it and use it and continue to have events and themed nights.

"Or maybe different food themed evenings with different chefs."

She said there is "nothing for under 18’s to do" in the area so an occasional youth disco "would be good". 

Other people fear for the future of nightclubs in general and say the venue would be better as a place for indoor games like bowling.

One woman, with her sights set higher, hopes it becomes a planetarium.