I and my friends are heartbroken over the impending closure of our beloved Walkabout nightclub. For years, this venue has been our go-to for ending our nights out in an atmosphere of camaraderie and celebration. However, the news of its impending shutdown threatens to disrupt this tradition and very palpably affects our night-life enjoyment.

Nightclubs such as Walkabout contribute significantly to the local economy and foster a unique sense of community. According to the Association of Licensed Multiple Retailers, night-time venues such as clubs and bars contributed £66bn to the UK economy in 2017 alone and employed 1.3 million people (ALMR, 2017). A closure would not only affect patrons like me and my friends but also push employees into uncertainty.

Given the economic and social impact of this closure, we call on relevant authorities to reconsider their decision. We implore them to strategize solutions that would allow the Walkabout to continue operating while also addressing whatever issues have led to this imminent shutdown. We believe that with necessary adjustments and community support, our cherished Walkabout can survive and flourish once again. Please support our cause and sign this petition – for our community, for our economy, for our nights out.