Edinburgh music venue and club Electric Circus is to close at the end of March, after playing an integral part of the Capital’s live music scene for 40 years.
The Market Street venue was expected to close in the next two years following the news that the next door Fruitmarket Gallery was planning to expand, but its closing date has been suddenly brought forward.
It was announced in December that Edinburgh City Council – which owns the two buildings – had reached a deal with both parties to let the Fruitmarket Gallery go ahead with its £11m expansion plans, which will see the venue double in size.
Electric Circus said it wanted to “go out with a bang” and will officially shut its doors on 25 March.
A statement from Electric Circus reads: “It is with a very heavy heart that Electric Circus has decided to close. We would first like to say the biggest thanks to all of you; to the staff who have worked with us past and present, to all the promoters and bands we have had the pleasure of hosting over the past 7 years.
“To the incredibly loyal customers; from karaoke, club & gig-goers – without you we wouldn’t be here today, you have all been a joy!
“The decision to close was not an easy one but we feel that due to the recent news regarding the eventual closure of the venue and the expansion of the Fruitmarket Gallery we feel, as a business it is best if we go out with a bang.
“Our last day of business will be Saturday 25th March & we hope that over the next few weeks we will see lots of familiar faces come down to celebrate the last days of Electric Circus.
“We thank you all again for your custom and continuous support and look forward to inviting you to one last party, more details of the last weekend will be published in due course.”
The venue said it would contact customers with pre-existing books after the closing date to arrange full refunds.