New nightclub in the works in downtown Amherst

By SCOTT MERZBACH

Staff Writer

Published: 02-23-2023 8:56 PM

AMHERST — A new nightclub in downtown Amherst to be operated by the same entity as a nearby watering hole is being planned for a vacant commercial building.

The Spoke Live is the name of the business that is coming to the 1-11 Pray St. building that formerly housed the Olde Town Tavern, and before that Charlie’s, as well as other tenants that have included Minuteman Cleaners and University Suds.

“The Spoke is going to be establishing something called Live at the Spoke in that location,” Planning Director Christine Brestrup told the Planning Board at a recent meeting.

An extensive build-out of the one-story building is taking place, with removal of interior walls that once separated the businesses, but minimal exterior changes are proposed, Brestrup said.

“It’s an interesting use,” Brestrup said.

Brestrup said the Zoning Board of Appeals is holding a hearing on April 13 for special permits for the nightclub.

In addition, on March 2 at 5 p.m., the Board of License Commissioners will hold a hearing on granting an all-liquor license for the establishment, which will be managed by Colin Hughes.

The nightclub will operate from a building situated immediately north of the One East Pleasant mixed-use building and the 11 East Pleasant mixed-use building under construction.

Article continues after...

Yesterday's Most Read Articles

Amherst councilors accused of racism, disrespect over heated meeting on cease-fire
Yankee Candle settles $1.2M class action lawsuit over time clock rounding
UMass basketball: Josh Cohen, Robert Davis Jr. first Minutemen to enter transfer portal
Reimagining the Hampshire Mall: UMass architecture students share their visions
Hadley nearing settlement over campers dispute along Connecticut River
Longtime employees buy Kitchen Garden Farm in Sunderland

The Spoke has been at 35 East Pleasant St. for many years, but at one time took up only a small portion of a strip mall building.

In recent years, though, it has expanded to take up the entire building, using space formerly occupied by The Sub, which closed, and Amherst Copy & Designworks, which moved to Hadley. The bar also expanded service beyond alcoholic beverages by adding a kitchen.

]]>