Heaven nightclub closed until further notice following sexual assault allegations

UPDATE: G-A-Y Heaven is now open

The Metropolitan Police said that they made a request to Westminster City Council to suspend Heaven’s license following a report of an alleged rape by one of the club’s security team. The alleged sexual assault took place in the early hours of Friday 1 November in the vicinity of Heaven nightclub and was reported to police. The incident and Heaven’s closure has been reported in much of the press, including The Guardian.

In commenting on the closure, Westminster City Council said, “We recognise this venue’s cultural significance, but the committee agreed this step is necessary to prevent serious crime and protect the public.” They continued, “A full licensing hearing will be held in December where both the police and venue management will have the opportunity to present new evidence.”

Venue owner Jeremy Joseph announced the venue’s closure “until further notice” on Heaven’s Facebook social media account. He said, “We are considering our position with regard to an appeal.” He added, “We are sickened by this allegation”, but because there is an ongoing police investigation, “We can only send our thoughts to the alleged victim”.

Westminster City Council’s 28-day suspension of the license started on November 13 and lasts until the full hearing, which must occur on or before December 11, 2024.