​Middlesbrough nightclub Empire given "final chance" to open following licence suspension

Middlesbrough music venue and nightclub Empire has been given one last chance to reopen after its licence was suspended in March.

The three-storey venue faced criticism from Middlsebrough Council’s licensing committee last month, which condemned a “complete failure of management”.

The council also cited poor door supervision and a pattern of “serious behaviour” associated with the venue following an alleged incident of assault outside the premises.

On March 23, a member of the public was filmed being thrown head-first onto the ground outside the Corporation Road venue and allegedly suffered a seizure as a result.

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According to the BBC, the committee had “seriously considered” revoking the venue’s licence completely, but decided against it after learning that Empire had employed new security and management teams.

Empire also had its licence suspended in 2022 after a stabbing at the venue.

Committee chairman Stephen Hill said: “Due to the common ground between the parties, it has been decided to give the premises’ licence holder a final chance to continue to operate.”

The committee also commented on underage clubgoers being let into the venue. “It is appropriate therefore that management know everyone who is in the premises and what ages they are, rather than just a cohort of people who an individual considers may look under 25,” Hill explained.

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The venue is now being given one “final chance” to open if it can comply with a new set of conditions, which include implementing body-worn cameras for door staff, and scanners used on every individual entering the venue.

Empire will also need to employ at least one door supervisor per one hundred people entering the club, while more staff members may be needed per a risk assessment.

Earlier this month, Empire boss Ashley Wem stepped down from his position at the venue after 30 years. Wem told the BBC that his decision to leave was nothing to do with the venue’s licence suspension, and even considered writing a book about his experiences at the club.

Empire first opened in 1987 in a former theatre. Over the years, it’s hosted DJs including Roger Sanchez, Sasha, Eats Everything, Justice, Erol Alkan, and Basement Jaxx.

Gemma Ross is Mixmag's Assistant Editor, follow her on Twitter