Shepherd’s Bush Empire closed for the rest of year following roof collapse fears

Inspection: the Shepherd’s Bush Empire was shut down
Nigel Howard
Matt Watts8 December 2015

A major music venue will be closed for the rest of the year following fears a roof could collapse on concert-goers.

The O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire was shut on Friday night after a last-minute “formal” health and safety inspection.

Hundreds of fans of indie-rock band The Courteeners were queuing outside when they were told the concert had been cancelled.

Singer Liam Fray said on Twitter: “We literally soundchecked, then it was called off. Absolutely gutted.

"They checked a problem and it was a lot worse than first thought.

“I know you’re all disappointed but if something happened to one of those balconies with all you guys inside it does not bear even thinking about.”

However, fans were furious that the concert had been cancelled at such short notice.

Damon Peirce, 25, from Worthing in Sussex, said: “I was pretty angry they couldn’t find this problem sooner.”

The 2,000-capacity Grade II-listed hall is now closed for the rest of the year, with events including a four-night residency by Kodaline postponed or moved elsewhere.

A spokesman for owners Academy Music Group said: “Safety and amenities for our customers and staff is paramount and we are truly sorry for the inconvenience this unexpected maintenance and repair may cause.”

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