The future of Luna Springs nightclub in Digbeth hangs in the balance after an emergency licensing meeting was convened following a double stabbing at the venue last weekend. West Midlands Police and Birmingham City Council officials gathered today to determine whether interim measures, including a possible suspension of the premises licence, should be imposed.
Emergency Licensing Sub-Committee Meeting
The council's licensing sub-committee, chaired by Councillor Diane Donaldson, held an urgent session to consider an application from West Midlands Police for an expedited review of the venue's licence under Section 53A of the Licensing Act 2003. The application was submitted in light of what police described as 'serious crime and disorder' at the premises.
Police were called to the Lower Trinity Street venue at around 7pm on Saturday, May 9, during a day rave event known as Cru2. Two men were rushed to hospital with serious injuries, although these were not considered life-threatening. A man in his 40s was arrested on suspicion of wounding and later released on bail with strict conditions.
Possible Interim Measures
The hearing considered several potential interim steps, including modification of the conditions of the premises licence, a ban on the sale of alcohol, and the removal of the current 'designated premises supervisor'. Representatives from the venue's owners attended the meeting alongside police officers. Due to the ongoing criminal investigation, representations were made in private, but the outcome is expected to be made public afterward.
Luna Springs is heavily promoting a screening of Aston Villa's Europa League final scheduled for Wednesday, May 20, with tickets already sold. The outcome of today's hearing could impact this event.
Following the hearing, updates on the decision will be provided as soon as they are available.
