The Leadmill has announced it’s being evicted by their current landlords after years of conflict – and Oasis legend Liam Gallagher made his thoughts clear on X
Liam Gallagher was outraged to hear about the iconic venue(Image: Didier Messens, Redfernsvia Getty Images)
The Leadmill is closing after a three year battle with its landlords – and the sad news has sparked a devastated response from fans and Liam Gallagher alike.
Taking to their social media accounts, a spokesperson for the iconic Sheffield venue spoke about a court ruling that led to the closure. They said: “The ruling means we must vacate the premises within the next three months, marking the end of an era for a venue that has been a cornerstone of the city’s cultural life since 1980.”
Following up in a press release, they added it was a “heartbreaking moment” for both the team and “entire Sheffield community”. They added: “Today’s decision feels like a betrayal of the cultural fabric of our city.”
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Along with the message, they wrote: “Sad news tonight. Thanks to all who’ve supported us over these difficult times, we’ll never forget what you’ve done for this business and it’s super talented staff. This will take us a few days to process but we will update everyone as soon as we can with next steps.
“We’re truly devastated by this outcome, but we also know hand on heart that we did everything possible to stop the Leadmill being evicted.
“We poured our energy, time, love and determination into this fight and we’re immensely proud of our team and the community that stood by us. We walk forward with our heads held high, knowing we gave it our all.”
Oasis legend Liam Gallagher is among those who is disappointed with the closure – having played at the venue himself. He replied to the news on X with the simple one-word comment: “SCANDALOUS”.
People agreed – sharing their thoughts in the comments section. One said: “Dreadful. Absolutely sickening. I grew up there. My mates worked there. The Leadmill was my youth”
Another agreed: “You wouldn’t believe how sad this is. If you’ve grown up with The Leadmill as a staple in your life, you must support their next steps and keep its legacy alive.”
And a third added: “Gutted to hear this, such a top venue! Was a proper bucket list for us and so glad we got to play it!”
History of The Leadmill
The landlord have hit back at suggestions The Leadmill will close(Image: Facebook: The Leadmill)
The Leadmill opened on June 16, 1980, and was initially established as a community hub. It emerged during a period of significant social and economic change, particularly in Sheffield, which was grappling with the decline of its traditional steel industry.
Early acts included a mix of live performances, club nights, and alternative cultural events catering to Sheffield’s youth and alternative scene. It quickly became associated with Sheffield’s thriving music community, home to iconic bands at the time like The Human League, ABC, and Cabaret Voltaire.
As the live music scene in Sheffield began to flourish, The Leadmill established itself as a breeding ground for emerging talent, hosting bands and artists who would grow to achieve national and international fame.
By the late 1980s, it had evolved into one of the most respected independent venues in the UK. It became an important part of the Britpop boom – hosting legendary bands like Oasis, Blur and Pulp.
In the 2000s, The Leadmill maintained its reputation as a key venue for both emerging and established artists. Some of the era’s major acts who played there include Arctic Monkeys, Kasabian, and The Libertines.
However, like many live music venues, The Leadmill has faced challenges over the years, including financial pressures, changes in the music industry, the Covid-19 pandemic and competition from larger venues.
In 2022, The Leadmill became embroiled in a high-profile dispute after receiving an eviction notice from its landlord, Electric Group, who planned to take over the site and run it as their own venue. This sparked a campaign to “#SaveTheLeadmill,” backed passionately by music fans, artists, and local figures who argued the venue is integral to Sheffield’s cultural heritage.
Sadly, the battle seems to be over as The Leadmill is now closing. A spokesperson said it will be hosting a series of farewell events in the coming months.
It also told those holding tickets for future gigs that there were plans in place to continue at other venues in Sheffield.