A NEW LGBTQ+ nightclub has opened in Bournemouth after being taken over by its 23-year-old owner.

Cameron Cooke has turned the new DIVA Nightclub into an inclusive space with a brand-new team and refurbishment.

The venue in Bournemouth’s Triangle changed hands just four weeks ago but has already proved a hit with its weekly events, Freaky Fridays and DIVA Saturdays.

(Image: Newsquest)

Cameron worked in Bournemouth’s security sector for more than five years and was preparing to re-sit their security badge before being offered the opportunity to take over the club.

“People say I’m young to be doing this but you just have to grab life by the horns,” said Cameron."

They added: “I am a member of the community so want it to be good.

“We are a great space for everyone, and everyone is welcome.”

Cameron wanted to move away from the site’s old venues, The Vibe and XCHANGE, by changing the interior and building a new team of staff, who are all part of the LGBTQ+ community.

Around £200,000 has been spent on refurbishments, including sound proofing the venue to ‘respect its neighbours’.

“We are conscious of our neighbours and the flats upstairs,” said Cameron.

“I also wanted to make it as sparkly and fabulous as I can.”

Cameron said they want to build back the Triangle as the “gay scene of Bournemouth” by getting the community back together.

The venue has one main room, with a dance floor, VIP area with seating, a welfare room and both male-only and all-inclusive toilets.

Since opening Cameron has received feedback of customers requesting female only nights and is now looking towards launching a lesbian only safe space night.

DIVA is also working with Bournefree to help make “Bournemouth’s queer scene thrive again”.

Staff also plan to walk in the Bournefree pride parade and have a stall at the event to talk to the community and understand what safe spaces they want to see in the town.

DIVA is looking to re-launch the famous VISEVERSA house music nights that were previously held at the site.

The venue is open from 11pm to 4.30am, with Cameron adding they will never shut early.

It is currently open two days a week, but will be looking to open Tuesday to Saturday in the future.

“It’s a new adventure, I’m excited and nervous at the same time,” said Cameron.