A POPULAR restaurant in Chelmsford is closing its doors with the loss of 67 jobs.

The Waterfront Place in Wharf Road says it is because of poor trading results over the past few years.

The centre looks set to give way to housing after it shuts on June 4.

The restaurant and conference centre is owned by the Richardson’s group of companies based in Norwich.

In a statement the company said: “The Waterfront will be closing on 4th June – with this being the last day operating. “This is due to poor trading over the past four years.

“The company has invested heavily over the past three years in the business but with the opening of a large number of branded restaurants over the last five years and four within the last year, the business has suffered to an unsustainable position.

“ It is with deep regret but the company had no choice and 67 jobs will be lost. We have yet to sell the site but we are in advanced discussions with a house builder.”

The Comedy Club which has been based at the venue for the past 12 years has announced this week that it will be moving to the Dukes nightclub.