MINISTRY OF SOUND: DANCE MECCA IN DANGER

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By Shamika Sanders

The Ministry of Sound is a legendary nightclub located in the heart of London. Inspired by New York’s biggest House venues, it first opened its doors on September 21, 1991 and has since become the second home to many DJ’s such as Armin Van Buuren, Steve Lawler, Pete Tong, Roger Sanchez, and many many more. Now, its future might be in jeopardy.

Countless dancers and DJ’s from around the world venture to this cathedral of dance music but now, the future of the club has been put under fire following a planning application by property developer Oakmayne. They have submitted plans to create a residential building on the site of the old Eileen House, which stands opposite the MoS and can stand as a threat to the club’s entertainment license, if built. What did Oakmayne chairman Christopher Allen have to say about this situation? When asked this question, he just said, “Nightclubs come and go.”

What Christopher fails to see, is that the MoS is more than just a nightclub. It is a place where up and coming DJ’s get their first shot. It’s a haven for those who want to dance in The Box (the club’s main room). It’s a household brand within the Dance community, it’s a record label, a website, there are even fitness DVD’s. It is a bona fide brand, and the club is its corporate headquarters, its Disney World if you will. That is why, a fight is brewing. Those behind MoS are fighting to keep the club in its present location and refuse to let a corporate Gordon Gekko like Mr. Allen get in its way. Mr. Allan and company have other plans.

If you are familiar with the Ministry of Sound, and you know about its legendary history, and its place in club culture and feel that Mr. Allen and the people of Oakmayne are 100% dead wrong, sign the petition here.

“When Oakmayne told us that ‘nightclubs come and go’, we were horrified. Ministry of Sound is not just any nightclub; it’s the most famous nightclub in the world and the heart of a global entertainment business. These developers have cut corners at every stage and counter to their claims, they do not have the best interests of the local community at heart. We must do everything in our power to save our club and our business.” Lohan Presencer, CEO – Ministry of Sound.

Oakmayne had their say, now it’s the time for yours. Sign the petition today!