Since 2020, the UK has closed the doors to 480 nightclubs, equating to 37% of the overall market, with a further 65 have closed since January; it doesn't seem to be slowing down. In this article, I’m going to discuss the reasons for closures and the factors that work against nightclubs, who it affects and how people are fighting against it.
There are many factors leading to the closures, from rising costs in energy, rent and supplies to licensing challenges and regulatory pressure. Independent Manchester music venue Night & Day fell victim to the pressure after they were taken to court after noise complaints nearly shut the venue down. They recently won the case, but it highlights the scarcity and inconsistency of the situation.
The effects of COVID-19 still play a large part in the industry, with changes in social habits towards alcohol and socialising, with 25% of 18- to 25-year-olds being less interested in clubbing and 22% have stopped going altogether since the pandemic. Talking to DAZED 24-year-old Leeds-based El said she used to love going out several times a week and having a big blow out at the weekend making memories, but since lockdown she said, “I had a lot of fun staying in our house with my housemates, without drinking or doing drugs. So now, I don’t go out that much”
The effects of closures run much deeper than just clubgoers, with jobs such as bar work, security and DJs being limited, becoming more competitive the more places close. 2024 saw the closing of superclub PRYZM, which saw 500 jobs being lost over 14 venues, the effects just before closure are also significant as clubs try to survive by putting on less events meaning less shifts particularly for staff that rely on midweek work. The closures also impact local communities and social spaces, with the erasing of cultural spaces that have been defined by generations. With night time economy employment making up 27% of the UK workforce it’s a surprise to find out they’re also considered the lowest paid, in comparison to 10% of all workers across industries.
The Night Time Industries Association (NTIA) is working hard to prevent the extinction of nightclubs, creating The Last Night Out, a campaign aimed at spreading awareness and highlighting the nighttime economy. Some of the key figureheads within the Night economy space have spoken up on the issues:
- Michael Kill, CEO of the Night Time Industries Association, “We are witnessing the systematic dismantling of the night-time economy. Our industry is not just about entertainment; it’s about identity, community, and the economy. The loss of our venues means the loss of jobs, culture, and a vital part of the UK’s social fabric. Without urgent intervention, December 31, 2029, will be the last night out, and the end of a clubbing era that has defined generations.”
- Sacha Lord, Night Time Economy Advisor for Greater Manchester, “The night-time economy has been an integral part of our cultural and economic history. It’s more than just a night out; it’s where friendships are forged, creativity flourishes, and local economies thrive.”
- Adam Taylor-Smith and Stephen Yeates, Senior Creatives at McCann London, said, “We’ve just waved goodbye to a government that seemed to have little time for culture and the arts, so we’re hoping the newly elected one will have a lot more. Night clubs are more than sound systems and wristbands. They’re vital organisations that provide careers, create friendships, inspire generations of artists and give people a place where they can truly celebrate their eclecticism as one after-dark family.”
With growing concerns for the well-being of the night time economy, the NTIA is making key demands from the government for: Continuation of Support for the Sector, Recognition of Nightclubs & Venues as Cultural Institutions and Policy Reform and Regulatory Support.
The UK nightclub scene is in a vulnerable state due to the mix of economic and social variables. If the closures continue at this rate, the sector will be extinct by 2029. But steps are being made to prevent it from figureheads and local communities, their aim is to be taken seriously and treated like a true sector of the economy and keep key parts of the UK’s cultural identity alive.
If you want to help prevent the extinction of nightclubs, you can start by signing the petition here.
