Newport’s Le Pub bought and saved by ‘National Trust of music venues’, Music Venue Properties

nme.com:

First announced by Music Venue Trust back in May 2022, the campaign went on to raise £2.3million in the first year through a series of donations and investments.It has been dubbed “The National Trust, but for venues”, and received backing by the likes of Ed Sheeran.

It works as venues can sign a “cultural lease” with Music Venue Properties (MVP) – guaranteeing that, as long as they operate as a space for grassroots live music for their local community, they can enjoy use of the building.Now, MVP has announced that the latest venue to join its expanding portfolio is Le Pub in Newport.

The grassroots space has been a cornerstone of the city’s music scene since it opened in 1992, and has hosted performances from artists including Skindred and Kids in Glass Houses.It has faced challenges over the years, and was forced to relocate to new premises in the ‘00s.

Now, under the #OwnOurVenues initiative, the venue has secured its future and removed any underlying threat of closure.“We are very excited to be part of the Music Venue Properties family of owned venues.