London’s iconic Fabric nightclub is set to close down permanently, following a near seven-hour hearing at Islington Town Hall that ended in the early hours of this morning (Sept 7).
The famous music venue temporarily closed its doors to clubbers early last month – a result of two drug-related deaths in nine weeks. The two young men involved both collapsed and died following suspected drug overdoses at the venue.
Fabric had its license suspended for 28 days following these incidents, allowing the Metropolitan Police to carry out further investigations.
Last night, the authorities presented their case to Islington Council against an opposing case made by the Farringdon clubs management.
After a gruelling debate lasting nearly six hours (and another torturous hour spent deliberating), three councillors ruled against Fabric due to the ‘culture of drugs’ and revoked its license. The club cannot operate without a license, so ultimately Fabric will have no choice now but to close for good.
Fabric was founded in 1999 by Keith Reilly and Cameron Leslie. In its near 17-year history it has given over 5000 artists the platform to entertain over 6 million people (many who have visited the club from all over the world).
Despite a petition set-up on Change.org with nearly 150,000 signatures to ‘#SaveFabric’, the public support was ignored. The club now has 21 days to appeal the decision.
Words by Megan Wilson
@meglouisewilson