NTIA: Nightclubs on ‘brink of extinction’
The trade body said the sector, which was “once the heartbeat of our cities and communities” has lost 37% of clubs since March 2020, equating to three nightclubs per week or more than 150 per year.
It added if the current rate of club closures continues, nightclubs will disappear entirely by 31 December 2029 and has launched a campaign called The Last Night Out to highlight the continued plight of the night-time economy.
The Last Night Out was created by advertising agency McCann London and aims to raise awareness of continued nightclub closures while driving people through to a petition challenging the Government to launch a heritage protection scheme.
Systematic dismantling
The plan for the scheme is it would grant nightclubs targeted financial support and clubs like Fabric, Ministry of Sound and Sub Club culturally protected status.
NTIA CEO Michael Kill said: “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.
“Losing our clubs means losing jobs, culture and a vital part of the UK’s social fabric. Without urgent intervention, 31 December, 2029, will be the last night out and the end of a clubbing era that has defined generations.”
More than a night out
Night -time economy adviser for Greater Manchester Sacha Lord added: “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.
“The current trajectory spells disaster not only for the businesses themselves but for the communities they serve. We cannot afford to lose these spaces – they are the lifeblood of our cities.”
NTIA’s demands from the Government
1. Continuation of support for the sector: The night-time economy requires sustained and meaningful financial support to weather the ongoing economic storm within the budget, starting with extending business rates relief beyond April 2025. Temporary relief measures are no longer sufficient; the sector needs long-term strategies to stabilise and foster growth.
2. Recognition of nightclubs and venues as cultural institutions: Venues such as Fabric, Sub Club and Ministry of Sound are not mere entertainment spaces – they are cultural landmarks. The NTIA calls for these iconic clubs and others like them to be recognised as National Portfolio Organisations (NPOs) on par with galleries and museums. These venues deserve the same considerations, protections and funding as other cultural institutions, acknowledging their crucial role in the UK’s cultural heritage.
3. Policy reform and regulatory support: The Government must urgently review policies and regulations that disproportionately impact night-time venues. This includes revisiting licensing laws, business rates, VAT and planning policies to create a more supportive environment for the industry.
