London’s iconic LGBTQ+ hotspot, G-A-Y Bar on Old Compton Street, is shutting its doors for good. Owner Jeremy Joseph has slammed soaring rents and a fading queer identity in Soho for forcing the closure of the much-loved club.
Soho’s Gay Heart Fades Away
Jeremy, who launched G-A-Y Bar in what was once the “gayest street in London,” revealed the neighbourhood has shifted dramatically. “Last year’s Pride, a third of local businesses didn’t even bother to fly the Pride flag,” he told Metro. “Old Compton Street has lost its identity.”
Rent Hikes Deliver Final Blow
The clincher came from a ruthless rent review for Heaven nightclub next door. Jeremy explained: “We asked landlord ArchCo to start the rent review early, but they waited till the last minute and served notice with no time to budget or negotiate. The increase was a hammer blow.”
He added, “I can’t put into words the anxiety and stress these last 23 months have caused.” With Heaven’s rent hike forcing a shift in focus, G-A-Y must close to concentrate on the neighbouring venue.
Battle Against Financial & Bureaucratic Hurdles
Jeremy also criticised local resistance to nightlife. “I thought about extending G-A-Y’s licence till 3am but what’s the point? Soho Society, police licensing, and environmental health would all object. It’s a constant uphill battle, made worse by the cost of living crisis hitting hospitality hard.”
He blasted the lack of support for LGBT venues specifically: “It doesn’t feel like anyone with power cares. Old Compton Street has lost its queer soul.”
Not the First Closure for G-A-Y
This isn’t unprecedented. G-A-Y Late closed in November 2023 after lockdowns and rising costs made it a losing fight. The main G-A-Y Bar, sprawling across three floors, has been a cornerstone of London’s gay nightlife, operating till 1am.
Jeremy also mentioned that the entire venue, including Heaven, will be put up for sale in January amid ongoing struggles with local opposition and a changing Soho scene.
London’s LGBTQ+ community now faces saying goodbye to a cherished landmark as Soho’s nightlife and cultural vibe continue to transform.
