London’s Borderline venue is set to close later this summer.
Long a mainstay of the capital’s live music scene, it underwent a full refit two years ago, but will close its doors at the end of August due to spiralling rents and business rates.
Redevelopment plans for the Soho area have also been cited, as central London is left with a shrinking number of live music venues. Around the Oxford Street area, only really the recently-rescued Social and 100 Club remain, following the closure of the Astoria, Metro and others over recent years.
George Atkins, managing director of venue runners DHP explains: “This has been a difficult decision, but given intentions by the landlord to increase the rent significantly for a second time since we took it over in 2016 as well as plans to redevelop the building housing the Borderline, we now know the venue doesn’t have a long term future so it makes no sense for us to continue to invest.”
“We’ve had an amazing two years at Borderline with some fantastic shows and want to thank everyone for their support from agents, promoters and artists to all the thousands who have come to the gigs and club nights.”
“We’ve put our all into trying to revive this iconic venue but unfortunately, it has been impossible to turn into a sustainable operation due to so many external factors. This is a sad day for all of us who love live music and believe in grassroots venues.”
The Borderline will shut up shop by 31st August, with the savings reinvested into DHP’s other venues.
Atkins explains: “DHP is still committed to creating and running the best grassroots music venues in the country. However I don’t see how it is possible in the West End when faced with all the difficulties from business rates, increasing rents and licensing pressure.”
