Islington Mill wins venue licence battle

Fans of alternative culture in Greater Manchester and across the land can breathe a sigh of relief today as news has just come in that the Islington Mill, the much-loved multi-arts venue in Salford, has kept its licence after a review that took place in Salford today.

“We are pleased to announce that after four years, and a lengthy Licence Review hearing this morning, Islington Mill has been granted a continuation of our premises licence, agreeing to a number of new conditions regarding the use of outdoor spaces and how people enter and leave the building,” reads a statement from the Mill.

Over 300 people wrote letters of support to Salford City Council after news got out that the venue was up for review – an unprecedented number for this type of hearing – which were read out today in Salford in front of three counselors.

“We are deeply touched by this overwhelming response and the understanding of the positive impact of what we do,” reads the Mill’s statement.

The focus for the arts venue now is to continue with the planned renovations of the building. “It is of the utmost importance that we now re-focus all the goodwill and enthusiasm we’ve received back onto our fundraising effort, without which we cannot begin urgent building repairs, including fixing our collapsed roof, as well as installing further sound protection and making the building fully accessible.”

Today’s outcome means that some of the city’s most vital and innovative events, such as Sounds from the Other City and Fat Out Fest, are no longer in jeopardy and will go ahead as planned, as will the Mill’s day-to-day programming of eclectic gigs, exhibitions, club nights and events.

After this turbulent and uncertain period, The Mill now firmly see their future within Salford’s community as one of collaboration and creativity. “We want to work in harmony with all the diverse communities of Salford to help the regeneration of the city,” reads the statement. This will be achieved, they say, by using the venue to help create work of “an international calibre, be that music, visual art, performance, residencies or creative business.”

The Mill's team see a positive and the end of this trying experience: “a renewed confidence in the ongoing support of the hundreds, if not thousands, of people who believe in independent venues and who want to help us save Islington Mill.”

For details of how to get involved and support Islington Mill in their ongoing endeavour to bring the most exciting art and culture to Salford, go to islingtonmill.com/about-us/support-us-now