Sadiq Khan urges 'common sense solution' as Fabric nightclub fights for its future after teenage deaths

London
Tuesday 30 August 2016 at 11:53am

A petition to save Fabric from closure is nearing 100,000 signatures Credit: ITV

Sadiq Khan says he wants a "common sense solution" to keep Fabric nightclub open, after the drug-related deaths of two teenage boys.

The club in Farringdon had its licence suspended after the deaths of two 18-year-olds, with its licence to be reviewed by Islington Council on 6 September.

A petition on change.org named "Save London’s nightlife. Stop the closure of Fabric”, has amassed more than 93,000 signatures in six days.

It urges Mayor of London Mr Khan to "back Fabric’s future" and is targeting 150,000 signatures.

Sadiq Khan has called for a Credit: PA

Responding to the petition directly, Mr Khan wrote:

I am committed to using the influence of my office to overcome the numerous challenges facing the nighttime economy. However, it is important to note that City Hall does not have the power to intervene in licensing cases like the current situation with Fabric. Clubbing needs to be safe. There have been two tragic deaths at Fabric over recent months and there are clearly issues that need addressing. Fabric, the Metropolitan Police and Islington will of course have to take real action to protect the safety of everyone who enjoys a night out at the club. My team have spoken to all involved in the current situation and I am urging them to find a common sense solution that ensures the club remains open while protecting the safety of those who want to enjoy London’s clubbing scene.

The petition was created by Jacob Husley, who has worked with Fabric for the last eight years as a promoter and resident DJ.

Fabric agreed to a temporary suspension to its licence after an 18-year-old collapsed outside the venue on August 6.

The teenager was taken to hospital but died later that day.

Another 18-year-old died in hospital after becoming ill at the club on June 25. Neither death is being treated as suspicious.