A Brighton MP has shared his reaction after one of the city's largest LGBTQ+ venues announced it will shut.
This afternoon, August 11, R-Bar on Marine Parade announced it will be closing at the end of September.
It cited rising operating costs, business rates, and the cost of living among reasons behind its closure.
MP for Brighton, Kemptown and Peacehaven Chris Ward said he will be meeting with Managing Director Steve Jones to discuss what needs to be done to support local hospitality.
In a statement shared with The Argus, Mr Ward said: This is really sad news, and I know how much R-Bar and Charles Street Tap mean to our local community.
"For decades they’ve been places of joy, freedom and inclusion, and its a huge loss to see two major LGBTQ+ venues in our City close.
"This just underlines that we need to do much more both locally and nationally to support our night-time economy, and LGBTQ+ venues in particular.
"Brighton has a proud LGBTQ+ history and identity, and we must do everything we can to protect the venues and spaces that are such an important part of that heritage and community.
I’m meeting with Steve Jones, R-Bar managing director, this week to discuss this further and to see what more can be done to revitalise and support local hospitality.
"I will then raise this both in parliament and with ministers going forward."
Read more
In a statement shared on social media, R-Bar called for more support for the night-time industry and asked people to support LGBTQ+ venues across the city.
The team said it will be hosting a series of farewell events ahead of the venue's final day.
Share