With many U.K. nightclubs and venues already in the financial weeds due to complications around policies and laws surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, a new law is set to go into effect that could further jeopardize nightlife.
Under the new law, establishments face a £1,000 fine for exceeding a sound limit of 85 decibels on music played in the venue (excluding live music). The establishments must also closely monitor dancing and socialization, enforcing a limit of six persons per party to avoid excessive interaction and remain in line with social distancing guidelines. For those that do not enforce that limit, the same fine applies.
In theory, the decibel limit will prevent music from being played so loud as to force patrons to speak louder or closer to one another, and limit potential projection of the virus through breath.
The law adds to the weight of previous measures that have already complicated matters for venues seeking to stay afloat amid the pandemic, including the 10:00PM curfew now being strictly enforced. As a result, the #LetUsDance movement has picked up steam since it first emerged in July.
With many in the dance music and events industry feeling the financial strain of the United Kingdom’s extremely limited options, #LetUsDance’s recent petition, which calls for extended funding to nightclubs, venues, and pubs, has garnered nearly 60,000 signatures and counting. Upon reaching 100,000 signatures, the petition will be considered for debate in the Parliament.
Image Credit: Mark Angelo
