'We are absolutely devastated': Iconic Northampton pub and music venue releases statement following 'incredibly long and difficult summer'

The Picturedrome, in Kettering Road, says ticket sales and attendance have fallen to an ‘all-time low’, while the rising cost of running the venue means it can no longer continue in its current format.

In a statement, The Picturedrome said: “After what has been an incredibly long and difficult summer, with ticket sales and attendance at events at an all-time low, business has remained extremely slow.

“Unfortunately, the level of trade we are now experiencing, combined with the ever-increasing costs of operating the venue, have made it impossible for us to continue running The Picturedrome in its current format and for the current structure to remain financially viable.

“We are absolutely devastated by the situation we find ourselves in. This is not a decision we have taken lightly, and after so many years of incredible events, fantastic nights and memories, it is incredibly difficult to have reached this point.”

The team said it will cancel all planned events and hires at the venue from September 28 as it reviews the business model and considers the future of the venue.

Customers who have bought tickets for Picturedrome-run events taking place after September 28 will receive an automatic refund. The venue said refunds will be processed within seven to 14 days, with customers not needing to contact the venue to request one.

The venue said: “We sincerely hope that, wherever possible, these events can be moved to another venue nearby, allowing customers to still attend the shows they have been looking forward to. Promoters will provide further information regarding their individual events as soon as arrangements have been made.”

It added: “This is an incredibly sad moment for all of us. The Picturedrome has been much more than just a business to us. It has been a place where people have met, celebrated, danced, watched incredible artists, and made memories together.

“We are working on a different business model for the venue and will share more information about its future when we are able to do so.

“We would like to say thank you to every customer who has attended an event, artists, DJs, promoters, & engineers.”

The venue was closed from 5pm today (Tuesday, September 1) but normal service is due to resume tomorrow (Wednesday, September 2).