Fabric nightclub to reopen after it strikes a deal with Islington Council

Fabric. Image: Wikipedia/Creative Commons
Clubbers at Fabric. Photograph: Wikipedia/Creative Commons

Fabric, the iconic nightclub which closed earlier this year, will be reopening.

The club reached a deal with Islington Council that will mean it will be governed by a strict new licensing regime involving constant CCTV monitoring, ID scanners and other security-related changes.

This comes after the Islington Tribune newspaper revealed behind-the-scenes discussions were going on between lawyers for Fabric and representatives from the council aimed at brokering an agreement amenable to both sides.

The council controversially closed Fabric after the Metropolitan Police applied for a review of its licence amid concerns about “serious crime” associated with the venue.

At the time the Met said: “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.”

A concerted campaign soon arose to save the Farringdon club, and flowers were left outside the venue amid commiserations over its demise. Sadiq Khan’s appointment of Amy Lamé as “Night Csar” was attributed to the demise of London’s nocturnal attractions, with Fabric among those namechecked.

Today a spokesperson for Fabric said: “We are hugely thankful to be able to confirm the news that we have won our licence back.

“We owe everything to our supporters. We really would not be here today without your unparalleled support and generosity.

“So many different people stepped up to put their voices to our cause, artists from all corners of the music community, fellow promoters who have put on huge events from us and clubbers from around the world who all united behind us.

“We’ve even seen people sporting their #savefabric T-shirts on the other side of this planet showing just how big this thing is.”

This morning Mayor Khan tweeted: “Thanks to all who helped find a solution that protects the club’s future and keeps clubbers safe.”

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