LORNA MARSH Mystery surrounds the exact nature of building problems plaguing Norwich's Riverside complex and forcing the closure of two clubs and a bowling alley for several months.

LORNA MARSH

Mystery surrounds the exact nature of building problems plaguing Norwich's Riverside complex and forcing the closure of two clubs and a bowling alley for several months.

Initially it was thought Lava and Ignite and Hollywood Bowl would be shut for a matter of weeks but a spokesman for the clubs said closure was expected “for a number of months”.

The spokesman could not comment on the specific details of the difficulties at the popular complex and site owner X-Leisure was unavailable for comment tonight.

Rumours of subsidence at the site have existed for a number of years. Plans to build a concert hall on the once-derelict area came to nothing following whispers that the land was too soft for such a substantial building because it was close to the water.

The clubs and bowling alley were forced to close at the end of June and there is still no definite date for reopening.

Karl Johnson, spokesman for Luminar Leisure which owns Lava and Ignite, said: “Over the past three weeks, Riverside Entertainment Centre has undergone essential building maintenance.

“These works have identified a requirement for further works to be undertaken which will result in Lava and Ignite being closed for a number of months.”