Queer-led DIY space 'Gut Level' reach out for community ownership support

Despite their lease being up in the next 2 and a half years, queer DIY creative event space 'Gut Level' faces the threat of closure. Since launching in 2019, despite relocating to a few locations, Gut Level has remained in its home at Chapel Walk in Sheffield. However, their future remains at risk after significant renovations that required fundraising. Which, now, its landlords have put on sale. 

In hopes of gaining community ownership of its venue, Gut Level has now been added to the Music Venues Trust's Our Own Venues initiative, which was created in 2022. The crowdfunding through Our Own Venues will see Music Venues Properties seek ownership of the Chapel Walk building and protect Gut Level as a music venue and community space on 15-20 year leases.

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Along with the fundraising, Gut Level has also launched a paid membership, which is as low as £2, to help lock in its future. 

The crowdfunding deadline has been extended to 14th November, when it must hit its £1.5 million goal. So far, donations stand at £1,244,468, which you can check out to donate through the Own Our Venues' website. 

Also part of the newly formed Sheffield Independent Venues Alliance (SIVA) of more than a dozen grassroots venues in the city, Gut Level spoke about the fundraising, saying, "nothing changes from our events programme, community groups and activism. It will all stay the same, but Gut Level will be way more secure, allowing us time to grow sustainably and plan for the long term." 

To find out more information about Gut Level's paid membership and fundraising, head to their website. 

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Header image credit: gutlevel.co.uk