'Impossible' licensing climate blamed for closure of much-loved Hackney club

The nightspot, which is run by DJ and promoter Dan Beaumont, who also owns the Dalston Superstore, announced its closure in Facebook post earlier today.

'Impossible to get the hours we need'​

“We regret to announce that Dance Tunnel is to close its doors in August. Sadly the licensing climate in Hackney has made it impossible for us to get the hours we need to make Dance Tunnel sustainable in the long term. We would like to sincerely apologise to all the Tunnel Dancers who we are letting down. We really tried to make it work. Thanks to all the artists, DJs, promoters and family members who have shared their favourite music and moments with us over the last three-and-a-bit years. Thanks to everyone who has made our basement such a special place.”

The Night Time Industries Association described the news as ‘terrible’ and said councils are continuing to ignore the importance of venues.

Fears for late night venues ​

Beaumont was among the operators who spoke out against Hackney council’s proposals to close venues at 11pm and prevent any new licences from being granted in specific areas last year.

A consultation into the plans was scrapped after mistakes were found on the consultation document, but the council said it would relaunch the consultation during this year and hold a public debate on the borough’s night time economy.

A spokesperson described balancing the needs of the night time economy with the rights of residents as ‘one of the biggest challenges facing our borough.’ Almost half of the UK’s nightclubs have shut down over the last 10 years, according to figures released by the Association of Licensed Multiple Retailers last year.