In an exciting development for the LGBTQ+ community in London, Southwark Council has pledged £1.5 million towards the creation of a new inclusive venue at the historic site of the former XXL club. This funding is part of a larger £4 million investment aimed at revitalizing the Bankside Yards area.
The new venue is set to become a vibrant hub for the community, with plans to include a theatre and workspace. The opening is scheduled for 2026, marking a significant moment for LGBTQ+ nightlife and community spaces in the capital.
Southwark Council secured this space in 2020, following the closure of XXL in 2019. At the time, the closure spurred significant backlash from the community, including a petition that amassed nearly 6,000 signatures from those who wanted to preserve the beloved venue known for its welcoming atmosphere, particularly for the ‘bear’ community. While XXL continues to hold club nights in Birmingham, its London closure was seen as a loss for the city’s LGBTQ+ scene.
Councillor Victor Chamberlain emphasized the importance of protecting LGBTQ+ spaces through collaboration with developers. By proposing a memorandum of understanding, the council took proactive steps to ensure that the new venue will remain dedicated to the community. Chamberlain also highlighted the use of Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funds to make the project viable.
Councillor Helen Dennis expressed optimism about the new venue’s potential impact on the local community. She stated, "Making sure money from developers is reinvested back into our communities is a vital part of what we do and we’ll keep ensuring that money goes towards making a real difference and improving life for the people of Southwark."
The closure of XXL is part of a concerning trend, with more than half of London’s LGBTQ+ venues closing between 2006 and 2022, according to Greater London Authority (GLA) data. This decline, from 125 venues to just 50, highlights the challenges facing the LGBTQ+ nightlife industry.
LGBTQ+ Spaces in the Face of Adversity
The hospitality industry, especially LGBTQ+ venues, has faced significant challenges in recent years. In 2024, John Sizzle, former co-owner of east London bar The Glory, pointed to the "cost-of-living crisis, the aftermath of the pandemic, and increased expenses due to Brexit" as factors contributing to the struggles faced by nightlife establishments. Many young people, he noted, prioritize spending on essentials like rent over leisure activities due to financial constraints.
The new venue at the former XXL site symbolizes hope and progress for the LGBTQ+ community, providing a much-needed space for socializing, cultural events, and community building. The inclusion of a theatre and workspace underscores the venue’s role as a multifaceted space catering to diverse interests within the community.
As London continues to evolve, initiatives like this are crucial in maintaining vibrant and inclusive spaces for the LGBTQ+ community. With ongoing support from local councils and community leaders, the future looks promising for restoring and creating spaces that celebrate diversity and resilience.
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