Grimsby grassroots music venue tells us times are still tough
Today a Parliamentary inquiry will look into the state of the industry
Rising costs are meaning many grassroots music venues across Lincolnshire and Newark who struggled during the pandemic are still finding it difficult to survive.
125 such venues closed across the Uk during 2023.
It comes as Parliamentary inquiry will today look into the state of the industry.
We spoke to Katie-Louise Green manager of Docks Academy in Grimsby about her experiences.
Everything it takes to run a venue has increased
She told us: "Everything has been increasing - everything."
"All of our overheads - all of our staff costs - everything that it takes to run that venue has increased,"
"Obviously there's artists as well - that is a really challenging balance to keep the venue going."
"The whole music scene needs to be working together especially in our area where it can be harder for us.
"It's easier to get opportunities in cities but here on the East Coast we need to be doing our work so they're represented and they are supported."
There is something really special about going and seeing live music
"Music venues are so vital and they start at the heart of communities."
"We have seen such amazing talent and we know the fundamental importance that we need to provide a platform for those grassroots musicians."
"You can't compare the atmosphere and the experience of going and seeing a live music event in a venue."
"There is something really special about going and seeing live music - especially in these small capacity venues."