The site, which has been a much-loved Bristol favourite among artists and locals alike, has been open since 2003 and is set to close due to the end of it’s lease.
This brings the prospect of the building being sold or repurposed into a legitimate possibility, according to managing director of the venue Daniel Deeks. He explained in a public article addressing the potential closure, that sale or redevelopment could spell the end of an era for the site.
Deeks noted the closure and potential refurbishment of the site, could lead to it potentially “transforming a vibrant cultural space into something unrecognisable and disconnected from the music and arts community it has served.”
He explained, that despite the socio-economic factors impacting the hospitality and music industry following the Budget, Motion has remained both a “viable and successful business”.
He outlined closures throughout the night-time industry represented “more than business losses,” but, “signal the erosion of cultural heritage and vital social spaces".
The managing director stressed if no action is taken to help preserve the stability of the night time sector “future generations risk inheriting a diminished and less diverse nightlife culture".
Deeks emphasised, that despite the possibility of closure at the site, the line-up of events that Motion offer are diverse and varied, highlighting that the various revenue streams run by the company also contribute to it’s overall growth.
The site’s events attract people from all across the UK. The venue’s commitment to balancing “high-profile shows alongside affordable options” is, he stated, what ultimately unifies the younger demographic attracted to the site, generating “community bridging divides in an increasingly fragmented world.”
Furthermore, he addressed the issue of both respecting the site’s landlord in choosing to potentially sell or re size Motion, alongside preserving it’s cultural significance in the community: “The building’s owner understandably wants to maximize the asset’s value, which may involve future development or a potential sale.”
Cultural importance
He continued: “On the other hand, the council recognises Motion’s cultural importance and insists that any changes align with preserving this use.”
He detailed the process of applying to purchase the site and contacted the British City council in order to focus on continuing to support the night life of Bristol, whilst simultaneously nurturing it’s creative communities and talent.
The council, he revealed generally holds a stance of positivity and support towards venues like Motion, and has a commitment to preserving the city’s cultural spaces.
Deeks reported that council feedback was positive, eluding that statements read, “a venue needs to ensure the long-term longevity and viability of the music venue, which has national prominence and is an economic asset to the city”
Listing the aid the council had provided, he explained impactful measures laid out by the body included the conditioning of deed of easements around Motion, therefore making sure the venue is protected from potential noise complaints that may arise from developments.
He explained the council had also adopted the “agent of change” principle, which has been “transformative” for sites such as Motion. The policy declares any newer residential or commercial development that are located near to an established venue are required to take the appropriate measures to appropriately deal with potential noise issues.
As the site’s lease is set to end in July of next year, Deeks outlined the environment of uncertainty that this fosters for the venue, staff and artists who frequent the space, as well as the wider Bristol community.
He highlighted the effect night-time venues closing ultimately has on the local economy, detailing night-life venues such as Motion, bring about ticket sales, tourism hospitality and also local services that benefit from events held at the site.
Deeks explained the issues of moving forward meant respecting the current landlord’s decision whilst a new lease agreement for the site would need to ensure the site was not only continued to run sustainably, but also a sale to an owner would also need to see the venue still recognising the importance that sites such as Motion provide.
Alarming closure rate
He said: "The council and UK Government also have a responsibility to uphold their policies to protect cultural venues. Their support is critical in shaping a path forward that allows Motion to thrive at its current site.
“By reinforcing their commitment to preserving cultural spaces, they can help secure a future where Motion not only survives but grows as a vital part of Bristol’s community.”
He explained that spaces such as Motion are recognised throughout the night-time industry not only for their value, but for actively supporting generations to come.
Night-Time Industries Association CEO Michael Kill warned of the impact of the Budget on the night-time sector.
He told The Morning Advertiser: “Nightclubs in the UK are closing at an alarming rate – three clubs every week, adding up to more than 150 closures a year.”
“The recent Budget will only accelerate this trend, with rising costs, soaring business rates, and weakened consumer spending pushing venues to the brink.”
Kill stated the current Government’s tactics are “systematically dismantling” the night-time economy, specifically targeting dance floors. He added: “Without meaningful intervention, we risk erasing an industry that fuels our cities’ vibrancy and generates vital jobs.”
Touching on the measures club owners are taking amidst these times, he stated: “Club owners are fighting back with reduced hours and cost-saving measures, but the reality is these steps alone aren’t enough.”
Kill stressed the vital need for the Government to acknowledge the value of the night time sector, and “step up with targeted support".
The trade body boss urged: “Our dance floors are more than businesses – they’re cultural institutions. Let’s not lose them.”
