Labour and Green politicians both pledge support for Motion

The cabinet member for communities and public health says that it would be “a terrible outcome for both Bristol’s economy and its cultural offering” if a nightclub like Motion were to close due to noise complaints.

Ellie King spoke after Motion published an open letter calling for Bristol’s support following an increase in complaints during its summer season of outdoor events.

The award-winning club also called out the Green Party, claiming that they have helped to “make us the target”, something which Green councillors refute, saying that there needs to be “fairness” for both Motion and local residents.

King told Bristol24/7 that our city’s sound system culture and underground music scene is part of its identity “and is something that needs to be celebrated and protected”.

She said: “The nighttime economy has suffered immensely as a result of the pandemic. It’s disappointing to hear that some councillors are actively encouraging people to make noise complaints against nightclubs that operate within the terms of their licence.

“Even if a nightclub keeps its music volume within an approved limit, complaints from residents can still result in it having its licence revoked.

“Losing well-regulated, world-class clubs like Motion would be a terrible outcome for both Bristol’s economy and its cultural offering.

“As well as its cultural significance, the nighttime economy, pre-Covid, made up 30 per cent of all employment in Bristol, bringing millions to the local economy. The industry has suffered hugely as a result of Covid and the council is working tirelessly to secure support the sector’s recovery.

“We recognise that noise from nightclubs needs to be kept to a minimum, which is why we have brought forward a number of policies, such as the Agent of Change principle, to ensure this is the case.”

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In 2017, Green Party councillors were among those who lobbied for the city council to introduce the Agent of Change.

This puts the onus for soundproofing on new residential developments opening near existing venues; and if a music venue opens in a residential area, it too would be responsible for complying with residential requirements.

In a statement, Lisa Stone and Ed Plowden, who represent Windmill Hill ward, said: “We respect Motion nightclub as a valuable part of Bristol’s culture. We know they have been affected, like everyone else, by recent lockdowns and we want to see them continue to thrive.

“It’s only fair that clubs like Motion that have been part of Bristol’s nightlife for years should be protected from noise complaints from new developments built nearby…

“In recent weeks we have had many upset people contact us as their local councillors. All of them say that they are used to noise from Motion but that it is louder than before.

“The noise used to be wind and weather dependent, but now people report being affected over half a mile away even when they go inside and close their doors and windows.

“We have requested noise monitoring for quantifiable, objective data for fairness to both Motion and residents.

“We will be working together with the club and local community to ensure that Motion get the soundproofing upgrades they are entitled to and make sure that noise levels aren’t exceeding agreed levels.

“We need to find the best outcome for everyone, protecting Bristol’s nightlife and representing local residents.”

Main photo: Motion

Read more: Nightclub appeals for support as sound complaints increase

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