A £75 million leisure complex has seen the closure of two more businesses within weeks, as a virtual reality gaming centre closes its doors.

A sign appeared on the door of Virtual Recreation at Elwick Place in Ashford yesterday stating the site would be shut for the rest of the week.

Today, bosses have announced on their Facebook page that the venue, which opened in November 2023, is closing for good.

“We are incredibly sad to inform our loyal customers that Virtual Recreation has ceased trading with immediate effect while we consider options available to the business,” their online statement reads.

“We will be in touch directly with anyone who has pre-bookings with us.

“Thank you to everyone who has supported us as a small, independent business as we tried to bring something new and exciting to Ashford.

“Please accept our sincerest apologies for any inconvenience this may cause.

“We appreciate your understanding during this extremely challenging time.”

Virtual Recreation, known as VRec, took over the former Macknade coffee shop and food hall unit in Elwick Place in November 2023.

The venue was the first of its kind in the town and offered immersive state-of-the-art technology which meant users could experience virtual reality.

After it opened, KentOnline reviewed VRec and described it as a “genuinely fine addition to the town’s portfolio”.

“Long may it stay,” our reviewer said.

“It could very well be the catalyst the place needs.”

It comes as The Snug which was situated below the cinema in Elwick Place, closed earlier this month.

The independent homeware shop opened in 2021. But after three years, bosses decided to shut for good.

Other businesses which have ceased trading at Elwick Place include Leo and Sage – a cafe once voted the best in Kent.

After just 16 months of trading, bosses blamed “escalating costs” for the difficult decision to shut.