The closure of Griessmuehle is nothing new.

The closure of Griessmuehle is inevitable. The protests against its closure are applaudable, but useless.

            The Berlin club Griessmuehle is closing down as early as 31st January. The landlord has decided to knock down the building and build offices instead. This is common behaviour for property owners – club goers are used to the ever-changing scene of clubs. Arguably this keeps it fresh & new.

What separates the closure of Griessmuehle from the unpredictable wind of club closure is gentrification. Clubs aren’t just closing down because of financial reasons; they’re closing down because of an ideological attack from councils and developers.

The increasing pressure from gentrification applied to clubs is damaging but creating a new exciting revolution in how we party, and the structure of clubs. We’re seeing clubs such as The Cause, in Tottenham Hale, London, which has strived to be part of the community. They regularly run parties for charity, allow the space to be used by others in the area.

This same approach applies to clubs like the Partisan collective, in Manchester.

Whilst clubs seem to be suffering, grassroot projects form the strongest bonds with the community and are more sustainable approaches in creating a safe and enjoyable space to throw parties. Whilst the closure of Griessmuehle will always be sad, grassroots & community owned clubs are the way forward.

Clubs don’t just have to be the nusiance on the street, they can be areas of truth, acceptance, teaching, love, & partying.