The venue, known for its signature cocktails and bar games, opened its doors on the 23rd of February at Stonebow House and is the newest addition of Roxys locations dotted around the country.

After positive reactions on social media promoting the opening of Roxy Ball Room in York, the venue’s opening marks the company’s 12th site in the UK since its first in Leeds in 2013.

However, as stated in an article for The York Press, anti-social behaviour and reports of crime in the city centre appear to have risen since the lifting of social-distancing restrictions during the Covid-19 pandemic.

York MP Rachel Maskell had previously criticised Roxy Leisure’s plans to open in York, saying: “It is disgraceful that Roxy Leisure has failed to engage with the community and has not conducted risk assessments for the impact that their venue will have on these communities”, according to York Press.

In an article by YO1 Radio, the MP had further said: “No thought [given] to the impact that the venue could have on local residents, community groups or bus users”

Adding: “This type of venue is simply not wanted in York and I hope the council send Roxy Leisure packing.”

York’s Roxy Ball Room has already opened up 30 new jobs, according to the York Mix, and is situated in a hotspot location for students who live close-by as well as those visiting or working in the city centre.

The Ball Room indicates continued investment into York’s nightlife industry after detrimental effects of Covid-19 on bar and club closures around the country.

The venue is open to anyone over the age of 18 to experience a games-fuelled night out in a lively social space, with an American style menu until 11pm.

Some of the games on offer include Battling Cage; Beer Pong; Pool; Duck Pin Bowling; Air Hockey; and Basketball.

Matt Jones, co-founder of Roxy Leisure stated in an article for The Morning Advertiser, that “competitive socialising is now a huge sector in the leisure industry and the fastest growing”.