Mayor of London Sadiq Khan has issued a response to a recently launched petition calling on him to safeguard the future of the iconic Fabric nightclub.
Earlier this month the famous venue had its license suspended indefinitely pending an investigation into the drug-related deaths of two teenagers at the club.
Since then, a number of leading DJs and industry figures have called upon the police and Islington Council to find a solution to the problem without closing the venue, while resident DJ and promoter Jacob Husley has launched a petition urging the London Mayor to save the club. So far the petition has been signed by 93,960, with an overall target of 150,000.
Khan has now responded to the petition, in which he outlines his plans for ensuring the prosperity of London’s nightlife:
“London’s iconic clubs are an essential part of our cultural landscape. As Mayor, I'm determined to do more to protect them, as well as our theatres, live music venues, artists’ workspaces, historic buildings and pubs. It is so important that people are able to enjoy a fun and safe night out in the capital.
“As part of our wider plan to support the night time economy, I will appoint a Night Czar to lead this work by bringing together key stakeholders including club and venue owners, planning and licensing authorities, the Metropolitan Police and members of the public. No single organisation or public body can solve these problems alone – we all need to work together to ensure London thrives as a 24-hour city, in a way that is safe and enjoyable for everyone.
“I am committed to using the influence of my office to overcome the numerous challenges facing the night time economy. However, it is important to note that City Hall does not have the power to intervene in licensing cases like the current situation with Fabric.
“Clubbing needs to be safe. There have been two tragic deaths at Fabric over recent months and there are clearly issues that need addressing. Fabric, the Metropolitan Police and Islington will of course have to take real action to protect the safety of everyone who enjoys a night out at the club.
“My team have spoken to all involved in the current situation and I am urging them to find a common sense solution that ensures the club remains open while protecting the safety of those who want to enjoy London’s clubbing scene.
“I welcome your call for us all to work together – City Hall, London’s music venues, local authorities, the police and others – to make our clubs safer while also protecting our night time economy.”
At present the future of Fabric remains unclear, although a review, which will be held early next month, will help paint a clearer picture of what lies ahead for the venue. While Khan’s calls for an amicable solution for all parties concerned may well give hope to its patrons, its fate is likely to hinge on the outcome of the police’s findings.
A statement issued by the Metropolitan Police on August 12 said: "Due to concerns about serious crime associated with fabric nightclub, Islington police made an application to Islington Council for a summary review of the nightclub's license, on 10 August. As a result, the Licensing Sub Committee have decided to suspend the license as an interim measure, pending a full review hearing.
"Officers felt the need to act due to concerns about the safety of those attending the club because of the supply of class A drugs in the venue and the recent deaths of two young men linked to the club. London has a world renowned night-time economy and people should be able to enjoy it safely, without concerns of serious crime. The Met is committed to fully playing its part in keeping people safe."
Since launching in 1999, Fabric has become one of the world’s most iconic nightclubs, regularly hosting internationally acclaimed DJs and attracting some of the biggest names in music. It was once voted best club in the world by DJ Magazine.
