NTIA shares 'unwavering commitment' to Brixton Academy as it reopens

Last month it was announced the venue would open its doors again today​ (Friday 19 April) with an evening of tribute bands planned for the opening night.

NTIA CEO Michael Kill said:  "We are pleased that the Brixton Academy will finally be able to open its doors this evening for the first time in over a year, with a comprehensive safety plan and extended licensing conditions which have been agreed by authorities to safeguard future events within this iconic building.”

The academy closed after the death of two people at a concert in December 2022 and subsequent loss of its license.

While Lambeth Council eventually allowed the site to retain its licence, it stipulated new operating and licensing conditions must be adhered to.

Profound responsibility 

Kill paid tribute to the “two amazing individuals” that lost their lives during the “tragic events of December 2022”, Gaby Hutchinson and Rebecca Ikumelo, and shared his “heartfelt condolences” with their families and friends.

“It is important to recognise at this point the immense efforts made by all parties to ensure a safe and successful reopening, as well as establishing a new operating best practice for safety within licensed and performance spaces across the UK. We also recognise the profound responsibility that accompanies this”, the CEO continued.

The Brixton Academy is a Grade II listed building that is more than ninety-years-old and has seen a variety of icons take to the stage over the decades.

A petition to save the venue from permanent closures was launched by the NTIA last year​​ and received an “overwhelming response”, the association said at the time.

Special place

In addition, the temporary closure of the academy following the fatal incident saw an “enormous downturn in trade​​” for local hospitality businesses, with some having lost £500,000 a week.

Kill added the venue had consistently “held a special place” in the hearts of music lovers and that its cultural significant was “immeasurable”.

He continued: “Today (Friday 19 April) is also a testament to the potency of collective action and the enduring passion for live and electronic music culture, and we are indebted to each and every individual who signed petitions, participated in meetings, and voiced their support through various avenues.

“As the venue embarks on this new journey, we eagerly anticipate it welcoming music enthusiasts, artists, and the community to partake in the enchantment of live performances once more within this iconic space.”