Wimbledon is quickly emerging as one of the most welcoming communities for LGBT+ people in West London. Following the opening of its first-ever gay bar this year, CMYK Bar, the council has taken the opportunity to throw their full support behind the local LGBT+ community. A rainbow crossing, already being pegged the “Wimbledon Rainbow”, has been laid down in celebration of Pride Month to reflect the area’s support for LGBT+ people.
The brand new queer landmark across The Broadway road was the work of Love Wimbledon BID who, along with Merton Council, were keen to celebrate the area’s first gay bar and this year’s Pride in London events. We caught up with Merton Council Leader Stephen Alambritis at the crossing’s launch who shared why he thought the crossing was an important move for the community:
“It’s really crucial that we are acting as a diverse local authority. We have our first gay bar, CMYK Bar, and as we approach Pride marches and parades across the UK, we’re proud that we have a rainbow crossing in Merton. We’re proud of the message it’s sending that his borough is all about equality, people living the lives they want to.”
Helen Clark Bell, the Chief Executive of the Love Wimbledon BID, said:
“The bright, beaming rainbow that has landed on Wimbledon Broadway celebrates Wimbledon’s new LGBTQ bar which is a beacon of the town centre’s inclusive community. Building a sense of pride here has been a key objective for Love Wimbledon.”
Speaking of the importance of the landmark, we caught up with CMYK Bar owner Steve who has succeeded in opening the only queer venue in West London:
“It’s great to be supported by the council and Love Wimbledon. They’ve come on board, we have a great venue here for local residents and people from around the area. The bar really was something we needed needed.”
