Berlin's Noise Protection Fund makes €1 million available for club soundproofing
The government-led soundproofing initiative comes into effect today
Last year, the Berlin government pledged €1 million to help nightclubs equip themselves with proper noise protection. The goal of the Noise Protection Fund is to "preserve the Berlin club culture by promoting noise abatement measures and to ensure the long-term compatibility of living space and club operations in the immediate vicinity."
As of today, Berlin clubs can apply for a public grant that may supply each venue with €50,000 or €100,000 "for projects of extraordinary importance" that will go towards the installation of soundproofing refurbishments in and around their respective nightclubs.
These renovations include sound-absorbing installations in music venues and noise barriers in outdoor areas, as well as soundproofing windows for local residents. Once the application is submitted, a panel of experts will decide on the approval or rejection of the application.
Since 2011, approximately 170 nightclubs have been forced to close in Berlin. The hope is that this new initiative will help in defusing existing conflict situations between residents and the nightclubs in their neighborhoods.
Learn more about the application process by going here
Check out 10 clubs that you need to rave at in Berlin here