The Night Time Industries Association (NTIA) has claimed that the government is intentionally letting nightclubs close across the country close. Some clubs partnered with the NTIA estimate that their running costs will increase by over 100% in the coming months, and with the government discontinuing their energy relief scheme and the ballooning rate of inflation, venues up and down the country might find themselves in a position of peril moving ahead.

In a statement responding to news that an energy relief scheme that was introduced last October came to an end (replaced by an initiative offering significantly less support for businesses dealing with surging energy prices), the CEO of the NTIA, Michael Kill, writes: "Nightclubs are a British institution, and are the bridge for many consumers to counterculture, a platform for artists new and old to perform and access audiences, for people to dance and socialise, supporting their physical, social and mental wellbeing".

Kill also says that the government's neglect isn't a response to the difficult economic situation, but their default stance when it comes to the UK's nightlife: "The current Government has never recognised the value of this sector and will continue to undermine its importance".

Michael Kill went on to say: "Intentionally shutting down our dance floors, Ignoring the immediate issue and accepting the losses is not an acceptable approach, and will have a considerable impact on the future of the sector, but will not be forgotten. It is inevitable that we will see a growing anger and frustration amongst the industry and supporters to take direct action, and we will be standing with them."

You can read the NTIA's full statement here.