​“Meraki is saved”: Liverpool nightclub to stay open as development plans fall through

Independent Liverpool nightclub Meraki has been saved from impending redevelopment after the local council denied plans to build a block of flats across the road.

In February 2022, the club faced closure as plans were put forward to redevelop the area and create residential buildings, threatening the venue’s survival.

Today, Meraki posted a video to social media detailing the ongoing situation, announcing that the council had scrapped plans to move forward with redevelopment.

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“We haven’t told you this until now, but we painted this on the roof last year so when potential flat buyers looked at apartments, they would know there was a nightclub across the road,” Meraki said, showing a sign that reads: ‘This is a nightclub’ across the roof.

When facing the initial plans, Meraki asked Liverpool’s club community to rally together and campaign for the venue’s survival. The club recieved support from Liverpool locals, as well as that of further afield.

“The council planning department recently refused planning permission on Bonded Tea Warehouse across the street,” the video explains. “We might call on your help again in the future, but for now, Meraki is saved.”

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Last year, Meraki argued for Liverpool City Council to look into the Agent of Change policy which is committed to safeguarding music venues and places of significant cultural value.

To celebrate the club’s safety, Meraki has launched a range of t-shirts and hoodies branded with the club’s logo. Check them out here.

Gemma Ross is Mixmag’s Editorial Assistant, follow her on Twitter