London
Petition to reopen iconic London nightclub Fabric signed by 95,000
The nightclub in Farringdon, central London, issued a statement on its Facebook page on 11 August explaining it would be closed for the weekend after two teenagers died from drug overdoses, but the club has yet to reopen.
Response
The petition to save the club is addressed to London Mayor Sadiq Khan who has responded on the site saying: “London’s iconic clubs are an essential part of our cultural landscape. As Mayor, I’m determined to do more to protect them, as well as our theatres, live music venues, artists' workspaces, historic buildings and pubs. It is so important that people are able to enjoy a fun and safe night out in the capital.
“As part of our wider plan to support the night-time economy, I will appoint a night czar to lead this work by bringing together key stakeholders, including club and venue owners; planning and licensing authorities; the Metropolitan Police; and members of the public. No single organisation or public body can solve these problems alone. We all need to work together to ensure London thrives as a 24-hour city, in a way that is safe and enjoyable for everyone.
“I am committed to using the influence of my office to overcome the numerous challenges facing the night-time economy. However, it is important to note that City Hall does not have the power to intervene in licensing cases such as the current situation with Fabric.
“Clubbing needs to be safe. There have been two tragic deaths at Fabric over recent months and there are clearly issues that need addressing.
“Fabric, the Metropolitan Police and Islington will of course have to take real action to protect the safety of everyone who enjoys a night out at the club.
“My team has spoken to all involved in the current situation and I am urging them to find a commonsense solution, which ensures the club remains open while protecting the safety of those who want to enjoy London’s clubbing scene.
“I welcome your call for us all to work together; City Hall, London’s music venues, local authorities, the police and others, to make our clubs safer while also protecting our night-time economy.”
The club also took to social media and has released a number of statements regarding the temporary closure, with the most recent explaining that safety of customers is a priority. The club also thanked its supporters.
One user said of the club: “Fabric is more than a club. Fabric is a symbol of a generation, of a whole culture of people all around the world.”
Another said: “Club closing is no solution against drugs. The reasons for taking drugs are not the clubs. Give the youth love, strength, hope and aims for their life! #SaveFabric.”
Social media
The venue has also changed its profile picture on Facebook to feature "#savefabric”, with a cover photo of “Save London’s nightlife. Stop the closure of Fabric”.
The club’s licence will come under scrutiny when it is reviewed by Islington Borough Council on 6 September.
