One of the North’s most iconic live music venues has lost its legal battle to remain in its home of more than four decades and has been given three months to vacate the premises.
The team behind The Leadmill in Sheffield confirmed the outcome in a statement posted to social media, revealing they had “lost their legal appeal” against the eviction notice served by landlord the Electric Group, which also operates venues in London, Bristol and Newcastle.
Despite widespread support from the music industry – including high-profile backing from Pulp frontman Jarvis Cocker and Richard Hawley – the decision means The Leadmill must leave the building it has occupied since 1980.
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Calling it “a heartbreaking moment not just for our team but for the entire Sheffield community,” the statement said: “We’ve fought tirelessly to protect this independent venue which has supported countless artists, musicians and creatives for over four decades. Today’s decision feels like a betrayal of the cultural fabric of our city.”
The team added: “We are truly devastated by this outcome, but we also know hand on heart that we did everything possible to stop the Leadmill being evicted. We have poured our energy, time, love and determination into this fight and we’re immensely proud of our team and the community that stood by us.”
Warning the ruling could have broader implications for tenants, they said: “This decision has ramifications for every business tenant in the country. The judgment in the High Court and in the Court of Appeal confirms that tenants have no rights whatsoever, that if a landlord wants to profit from evicting the tenant and copying the tenant’s business, it can do so.”
The Leadmill also announced a series of farewell events and said it is working to relocate upcoming gigs to other Sheffield venues. “We are devastated but not defeated. This is not the end of The Leadmill’s spirit – it’s a call to action for everyone who believes in the importance of independent culture.”
In a statement previously shared with NME, the Electric Group said: “We welcome the court’s consideration and careful decision to award a possession order for the Leadmill; an important ruling following difficult legal proceedings. The successful legal outcome paves the way for a bright future for this venue, ensuring it will receive the substantial investment it needs to thrive. It will continue to be a cornerstone of the live music scene in Sheffield, supporting artists, fans, and community projects for the next 100 years.”
The Leadmill first received its eviction notice in 2022, prompting an outcry from figures including Arctic Monkeys, Jarvis Cocker, and Bring Me The Horizon’s Oli Sykes. Though its future location remains uncertain, the team has previously indicated a willingness to find a new home.
