Old Red Bus Station in Leeds to close due to financial pressures

The Old Red Bus Station in Leeds will close on January 18 due to financial pressures, including rising costs and lack of support from local government. The venue, known for promoting emerging talent, cited an inability to secure a long-term lease. This closure reflects a broader trend, with grassroots music venues in the UK facing unprecedented challenges. The Music Venue Trust reported that venues are closing at a rate of about two per week, highlighting a crisis in the live music sector. Efforts to support these venues include calls for a ticket levy on larger gigs and initiatives like the #OwnOurVenues scheme, which helps some venues secure their operations. However, many continue to struggle amid rising costs and limited resources.