Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said, “London’s iconic clubs are an essential part of our cultural landscape. Clubbing needs to be safe but I’m disappointed that Fabric, Islington Council and the Metropolitan Police were unable to reach agreement on how to address concerns about public safety.
“As a result of this decision, thousands of people who enjoyed going to Fabric as an essential part of London's nightlife will lose out. The issues faced by Fabric point to a wider problem of how we protect London’s night-time economy, while ensuring it is safe and enjoyable for everyone. Over the past eight years, London has lost 50 percent of its nightclubs and 40 percent of its live music venues. This decline must stop if London is to retain its status as a 24-hour city with a world-class nightlife.
“I am in the process of appointing a Night Czar who will bring together key stakeholders including club and venue owners, local 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.”
Notes to editors
The Mayor of London sent the following letter to Islington Council ahead of the License Review Hearing:
Cllr Flora Williamson
Chair of Licensing Committee
The London Borough of Islington
Town Hall
Upper Street
London
N1 2UD
Monday 5 September 2016
Dear Ms Williamson,
I am writing to you ahead of the License Review Hearing for Fabric nightclub.
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.
I am committed to using the influence of my office to overcome the numerous challenges facing the night time economy whilst keeping those who enjoy it safe. City Hall rightly does not have the power to intervene in licensing cases like the current situation with Fabric. However, I believe we play an important role in supporting local authorities, the police and businesses to adapt to the challenges that we face across the capital.
As part of our wider plan to support the night time economy, I am currently in the process of appointing a Night Czar. They will bring together key stakeholders including club and venue owners, local 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.
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 your committee will of course have to take serious 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 to help in finding a resolution that ensures the club remains open while protecting the safety of those who want to enjoy London’s clubbing scene. I would encourage all parties to work with the Night Czar, once they are in post, and my Night Time Commission, to contribute to the night time economy best practice guidance that they will be producing.
Best wishes,
Sadiq Khan
Mayor of London
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