Save The Arches campaigners launch petition for 2016 reopening

A PETITION calling for the reopening of The Arches following its closure in the summer has been launched.
Campaigners say they aim to have the venue reopened by June 2016. Picture: John DevlinCampaigners say they aim to have the venue reopened by June 2016. Picture: John Devlin
Campaigners say they aim to have the venue reopened by June 2016. Picture: John Devlin

The multi-arts venue in Glasgow city centre was placed into administration in June and closed for good soon afterwards after it was forced to cease operating as a club.

A decision by the city licensing board forced the Arches to stop trading after midnight after Police Scotland lobbied it over a series of drug- and drink-related incidents, including 26 patrons who were reported for such offences in March.

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The decision was opposed by leading cultural figures in Scotland, more than 400 of whom signed a letter – including Irvine Welsh, Liz Lochhead and Kate Dickie – to keep the venue open.

The Arches was placed into administration in June. Picture: John DevlinThe Arches was placed into administration in June. Picture: John Devlin
The Arches was placed into administration in June. Picture: John Devlin

In a statement via the campaign’s Facebook page, a spokesperson for Save The Arches said: “We have been working hard behind the scenes to continue the fight and with some of the biggest names in music and art giving their support we are now looking to take this petition all the way to The Scottish Parliament and Nicola Sturgeon in a bid to have The Arches doors opened and license granted by around June 2016.”

The petition, launched via Change.org, has so far gathered over 3,500 signatures calling for the return of the venue, which hosted concerts, theatre, performance and exhibitions as well as weekly club nights.

The petition said: “On the 10 Jun 2015 The Arches was forced into administration. Since then the loss has been felt all over Glasgow and much further a field as The Arches was well known worldwide for its incredible atmosphere.

“We remain committed to helping The Arches in any way we can and will renew this fight to have the venue reopened roughly around June 2016 with the backing of some of the biggest names in the world of music and arts.

“We urge you to continue doing all you can to bring this iconic venue back - write to your MPs, MSPs and Councillors to voice your outrage, join our protests which will be announced shortly and continue sharing the petition on social media, using #BringBackTheArches and #SaveTheArches”

At the time of writing, it has gathered more than 3,500 signatures.