Edinburgh clubbers have reacted in anger at news that longstanding nightclub Cabaret Voltaire is closing.

A string of ‘closing parties’ have been announced before the club shuts its doors on February 20. It is due to reopen in March after a complete refurbishment and name change.

Cabaret Voltaire was purchased by pub and club giant Stefan King of G1 Group in July 2011.

A statement released when the venue was taken over last year suggested that few changes would be made by the new owners.

A spokeswoman for the firm said: “G1 Group purchased the freehold of Cabaret Voltaire nightclub.

"The company will, however, play a very hands-off role given the success and importance of venue director Sarah David's legacy.

"Sarah will continue to enjoy full autonomy in the running of the venue."

The club has been a mainstay on the Edinburgh scene, hosting different nights seven days a week.

Club promoter and DJ Adam Le Chic of Gasoline Dance Machine attended a meeting discussing Cabaret Voltaire’s future.

A post on the Gasoline Dance Machine Facebook page said: “Saturday February 18 marks the last Saturday night as we know it at Cabaret Voltaire.

“Refurbishments will commence from February 20 and within one month the people at G1 will have converted the best underground music nightclub in Scotland into a foam party/hen night hot spot. As you may tell, our hearts are broken.”

Clubbers have responded on Facebook voicing their disappointment at the venue’s closure.

Louise Collier said: “Sad times - one of my favourite gig venues. No doubt it is going to be full of bright lights, glitter and walking trust funds soon. RIP Cab Vol.”

Calum Kendrick said: “If I got my hands on the vile creature responsible for this… Sounds likes they’ll turn it into another commercial pig pen. Save Cab Vol.”

The G1 Group has released a statement saying they are “pleased to announce” Cabaret Voltaire’s refurbishment.

It reads: “A six week period of work will not only address significant structural issues, including severe water ingress, but will give the venue a wholly new look.

“Award-winning Scottish design company Surface-ID will create a new club and bar design for the venue.

“The transformed bar, club and live music venue will champion the best in design, ambience and entertainment.

“The site is one of the best club spaces in the country and the company is excited about the opportunity to develop the next chapter of this landmark site, Cabaret Voltaire and its predecessors Honeycomb and Peppermint Lounge.”