I appreciate your concern about the future of this music venue, which has a rich history, hosting musicians including David Bowie, The Smiths, Bob Dylan and Bruce Springsteen.

As you mention, however, sadly in December 2022, two people were killed and others seriously injured following a crush. As a result, Lambeth Council suspended the venue's operating licence and the Metropolitan Police subsequently added that it had "lost confidence" in the operator, Academy Music Group (AMG), and recommended that the licence be revoked.

I understand that Lambeth Council ran a two-day hearing on 11 and 12 September, with the Council supporting, in principle, the re-opening of the venue based upon 77 new conditions. These conditions include a "new, revised system for entry into the venue and the introduction of new barriers positioned on the highway", for which a temporary traffic regulation order would be required. I understand that AMG has already performed what is described as a complete overhaul of its security procedures and attitude towards risk assessments since the tragedy last year, both of which were independently audited by consultants. This action has given the police confidence to work with AMG to help develop their proposals further. 

I note that AMG has said it is immensely grateful to Lambeth Council for its decision and that the venue would reopen with a series of test events. I hope that safety will be paramount. 

I know many music fans wanted a solution to be found which secured the music venue's future with significant improvements to safety measures. I will follow developments closely as AMG work to implement the conditions and run the test events.