Sheffield’s Leadmill wins first court battle to avoid eviction from landlord

nme.com:

issued an eviction notice, sparking an outcry across the music industry and from gig-goers.The premises are owned by Electric Group — a joint venture between Dominic Madden and Jacob Lewis – and also own London’s Electric Brixton, Bristol’s SWX and Newcastle’s NX.

They bought the site’s freehold in 2017 and previously told music fans that they had no intention of closing the venue when they end the current occupiers’ lease.However, the management soon hit back, arguing that they were being “exterminated by the landlord” before launching a fresh appeal to fans, asking for support after revealing that landlords were reportedly moving forward with eviction plans .Madden then responded again, doubling down on claims that they “intend to continue operating the space as a music venue, focussing on a diverse mix of gigs, club nights and comedy events.”Now, after taking the matter to court, it has been confirmed that The Leadmill is one step closer to winning the battle against the landlord.The case was heard by Recorder Mohyuddin, King’s Counsel, in the Leeds Business & Property Court on Monday and Tuesday (May 20 and 21).

It comes after the venue had changed its legal team, and various submissions were put forward to explain why they believe the landlord’s approach is unlawful.During the appeal, the judge decided to transfer the case to the High Court, and stated that he thought three out of the four amended defence arguments put forward by The Leadmill had “a real prospect of success”.In his latest witness statement, Madden confirmed that if he succeeded in his eviction, the space would no longer be called ‘The Leadmill’ and all current staff would be replaced.