​Berlin government invests €1 million to support nightclubs

In an effort to protect the city’s nightlife economy, the Berlin government has pledged €1 million to help nightclubs equip themselves with proper noise protection, as there is currently and increase in property development that could force certain clubs to shut down.

Since 2011, approximately 170 nightclubs have been forced to close in Berlin. When resident who live near a venue complain about noise, they are more likely to win out against the venue.

The Club Commission spokesman Lutz Leichsenring touched on why clubs need protection against these situations: "In a densely populated city, where residential development is close to music venues, investment must be made in noise protection to ensure coexistence."

According to Tagesspiegel, The Parliament has agreed to help fund renovations at nightclubs. These renovations include sound-absorbing installations in music venues and noise barriers in outdoor areas, as well as soundproofing windows for local residents. It is still unclear how the €1 million will be distributed.

On a similar note, earlier this week London Mayor Sadiq Khan outlined a plan to protect nightclubs against soundproofing measures.

Harrison is Mixmag's East Coast Editor. Follow him on Twitter here