Popular Bristol nightclub Motion announces potential closure ‘with a heavy heart’ - read the full statement 🪩

Motion said the expiration of its lease at the end of July 2025 has left it facing ‘immense uncertainty’.

The owners of the premises on Avon Street in St Philip's have confirmed their intention to sell, but say Motion are welcome to bid for the site.

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Read the nightclub’s full statement below:

It is with a heavy heart that Motion Events Ltd. announces the impending expiration of our lease for the beloved property at 74-78 Avon St, Bristol BS2 0PX, which will end in July 2025. Despite our heartfelt request for a lease extension and to purchase the property, the current owners have refused, leaving us facing immense uncertainty.

For years, Motion has not just been a venue; it has been a cornerstone of our community, a sanctuary where people gather to celebrate music, art, and the vibrant spirit that defines Bristol. Motion has employed hundreds of people over the years, from a diverse cross section of Bristol and welcomed millions of attendees from around the globe, all coming together for one unifying passion: Music. The slogan “Keeping Bristol Moving” once captured the essence of our mission and the role we play in the city's cultural heartbeat.

We now find ourselves in a challenging position as the property is up for sale. While we are devoted to preserving this cherished space, the owners have expressed their intention to sell to local developers, seeking higher returns. However, no planning permission has been granted for any future development, highlighting that the true value of Motion lies not just in bricks and mortar, but in the community we’ve built together.

We are deeply grateful for the unwavering support from Bristol City Council, which has recognised Motion as a vital cultural hub for our city. Their commitment to retaining Motion reflects the sentiment of so many who consider this venue a second home—a place where creativity flourishes and memories are made.

As we navigate this difficult chapter, we earnestly appeal to the community to stand with us. Your voices resonate powerfully; they hold the potential to advocate for a future in which Motion continues to thrive and enrich Bristol’s cultural landscape. Together, we can remind decision-makers of the value of a place steeped in history, love, and community spirit.

You can find further information in a more detailed statement from our Managing Director on our website: https://motion-bristol.com/leaseexpiration/

We’ll keep bringing you unforgettable events until July, beyond which the future remains uncertain. Thank you for standing with us; your support means everything.

Team Motion x

And here is the statement from the owners:

The current lease for 74-78 Avon Street ends in July 2025 and the longstanding owners of the site, who are not professional landlords or developers, can confirm their intention to sell.

Motion Events Ltd as a current tenant is aware of the end of lease date and are welcome to bid for the site.