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Leeds' Wire nightclub to close permanently after 18 years

The venue cited the cost of living crisis and “changing lifestyle choices” as reasons for its closure

Longstanding Leeds nightclub Wire has announced its closure after more than 18 years.

In an announcement shared this morning (April 19), the venue told followers that Wire will close “permanently” on Sunday, June 2 — “It is with great sadness that we are announcing the permanent closure of Wire,” the team wrote.

The venue cited the cost of living crisis and “changing lifestyle choices” for its closure, which comes more than 18 years after it first opened in the summer of 2005.

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“Since reopening after the pandemic, the UK nightlife industry has been under immense pressure which we have not been immune to,” they said.

Wire also cited “looming commercial challenges unique to the venue” as another reason for its imminent closure, admitting its closure had become an “unavoidable outcome."

“Although the journey is about to end, we are grateful for the past 18 years & our mission to create an underground electronic music venue dedicated to drum ‘n’ bass, house and techno that Leeds could be proud of has been well & truly achieved.”

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They added: "Thanks to all the DJs, both local and international, who have helped Wire position itself as one of the best electronic music venues in Europe. It was a pleasure to host all of you whilst providing a platform for many who launched careers from Wire."

Wire is one of Leeds’ longest-running venues, operating from a basement on Call Lane. The 300-capacity venue has welcomed the likes of Andrew Weatherall, Theo Parrish, and Helena Hauff over the years.

Details of the final event are currently unannounced. In the run-up to its closure in June, the club will host artists including O'Flynn, Dave Clark, Frazer Ray, DJ Deep Heat, Soul Mass Transit System, and more.

Check out the final club listings for Wire here.

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