The LGBTQ+ London community has been taken by surprise over the weekend by the announcement that iconic club G-A-Y Late will close in December. Owner Jeremy Joseph pointed to LGBTQ+ safety issues and a failure of authorities to respond as reasons for the closure.
Jeremy Joseph, the club’s owner, in a statement cited recent attacks of surrounding guests and members of the club’s staff as a primary reason for the closure. According to them, this abuse, part of a growing trend in London, had brought too much pressure on the venue’s safety. Moreover, the local authorities’ unwillingness to develop a security plan prompted the closure. Nevertheless, Heaven, another club owned by Joseph, will remain open.
Following the statement, reactions over social medias were immediate.
G-A-Y Late announces closure “with great sadness”
Michael Kill, CEO of the @wearethentia, has called the closure "a profound loss for the LGBTQ community" https://t.co/fah5coqizK
— NME (@NME) November 25, 2023
City News interviewed Colin Puigmarti, a bartender at the club. The G-A-Y Late employee said that none of the people working for the club were sacked. However, Puigmarti stated that “The uncertainty in general can be quite drastic.” However, he expressed his concern about this closure as a major loss for the London LGBTQ+ community.
Local residents told City News, that the LGBTQ+ community in Soho were feeling wary about their safety.
One resident, Ian McNish said, “A whole load of those people look at you, want your phone and try to sell you drugs…But I’m sad. I’m sad to see G-A-Y closing.”
Even though residents understand this measure, some pointed out the responsibility of the Metropolitan Police.
City News asked the Metropolitan Police for any comments. Andy De Santis, Dedicated Ward Officer for Soho stated:
“We are aware of the decision to close GAY LATE and understand the upset in the community who face the closure of yet another LGBTQ+ venue. Soho is a very diverse ward bringing together people from all over the world and a haven for the community. This is both unique and challenging as it can make for difficult resourcing for the night time safety.
“We work in partnership and as a community with local venues, residents and partners to understand impact and issues at night. Much of what we have improved was through our local partnership and we are very proud of our engagement locally. We will continue to work together to improve night time safety and prevent further closures.”
