The Leadmill in Sheffield has lost its court battle with its landlord, putting its future in question. The venue, which has hosted iconic shows since 1980 and helped launch bands like Arctic Monkeys, has vowed to continue fighting despite the ruling. The owners of the building, Electric Group, issued an eviction notice to The Leadmill Ltd in March 2022, causing outrage in the music industry and among fans. The Leadmill Ltd owns the venue’s trademark, meaning a new location could potentially keep the name and branding. The Leadmill, known for its cultural impact and support of grassroots music, is consulting legal advisors to explore all options to secure its future. The venue has urged supporters to stand with them as they navigate this challenging time. Former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn and local artists like Richard Hawley have shown support for The Leadmill, calling it the heart of the city. Electric Group, the building’s owners, have faced criticism for their eviction plans, with accusations of greed and attempts to take over the venue’s business. Despite the ruling, The Leadmill remains determined to preserve its legacy and continue providing a vital space for creativity in Sheffield. Das ist für mich total unmoralisch. Wenn ich einen Veranstaltungsort betreiben würde, oder sogar einen Imbissladen, würde ich denken, ‚Halt mal, wenn sie damit durchkommen, wer ist als Nächstes dran?‘ Das ist einfach falsch.“
