Campaign launched to save Boxpark Shoreditch site

Last week Boxpark announced the closure of its Shoreditch site after 12 years. 

Subsequently, a campaign has been launched by the Night Time Industries Association (NITA) to save the venue. 

NITA is calling on Hackney Council to 'fulfil its duty to safeguard Boxpark Shoreditch', as they believe the site is being lost due to bureaucratic red tape. 

NTIA argues that the venue has generated nearly £100 million and brought more than 10 million visitors to the area, saying: ‘Boxpark Shoreditch is more than just a food and entertainment space; it is a vital part of east London’s social and cultural fabric.’

Speaking on the campaign

Michael Kill, CEO of NITA, says: “Boxpark Shoreditch exemplifies the exact issue faced across the country with red tape and restrictive regulatory controls stalling business investment. This has to stop. People are fed up. The new Government has made an amazing start, and I call on them to reach into the local authority and invigorate the local planning department and Hackney Council to find a solution.”

Furthermore, Roger Wade, founder of Boxpark has said: “Despite our relentless efforts in collaboration with the GLA, Hackney Council, and our landlords BGY, we must close due to a planning requirement.

"Unfortunately, the developers will not start building immediately, which makes this decision even more disheartening, especially since our neighbours Power league received an extension.”

The campaign calls on industry members to sign an open letter to Hackney Council and the Secretary of State for Business and Trade. The letter warns that the closure of Boxpark Shoreditch will 'impact the businesses and individuals directly involved, but would also signify a major setback in the ongoing regeneration efforts in Shoreditch.'

For NITA public sentiment is clear: Boxpark Shoreditch must be preserved. They urge everyone to sign the campaign here. 

You may also be interested in…