On Monday 18th September 2023, “The Battle for the Soul of Sheffield” will take to the streets with a major rally to Save The Leadmill. The Leadmill, in Sheffield, opened its doors in 1980 and has hosted artists including Pulp, Coldplay, The Stone Roses and Oasis.
The campaign to stop the takeover of The Leadmill will bring together music enthusiasts, local residents, and cultural advocates in a resounding show of unity.
The rally will take place on Monday 18th September at 9:00am outside Sheffield Town Hall. The public hearing, which will decide the future of The Leadmill, will commence at 10:00am.
The Leadmill will be running drop-in session to make placards and signs for the rally, the details of which will be posted on the campaign website: www.savetheleadmill.com
A spokesperson for The Leadmill said,
“We’re a team of passionate people who love providing events for Sheffield, and we’re trying to keep The Leadmill running as the venue you know and love whilst also running this campaign.
We’re working to Save The Leadmill, protect our city’s heritage, and defend our culture, but on 18th September, the decision about this hostile takeover will go to a public hearing, and we need you there — we must show the strength of support for our campaign.
Every grassroots supporter counts, so we’re asking you to come to our rally on Monday 18th September at 9:00am outside Sheffield Town Hall. We know it’s a working day, but if you can come even for just one hour, we would be so grateful. Bring your friends, family and signs!“
“Tell us you’re coming and get updates by signing up to our campaign at www.savetheleadmill.com/rally“
“We have been overwhelmed by your support so far, but it will take the full strength of this campaign to secure victory and win the Battle for the Soul of Sheffield, so please mark the date, sign up online and bring a friend with you!”
As a result, Dominic Madden, Co-Founder of the Electric Group, said: “There is nothing hostile about our intentions to invest in the Leadmill to ensure that it continues to operate as a music and arts venue which Sheffield can be proud of for many years to come.“
“The only hostility comes from the campaign itself which is attempting to mislead people into believing that the venue is set to permanently close. We want the venue to be inclusive and welcoming to everyone, including the staff – and equipped to attract the best touring acts and support the local community,”
to which a spokesperson from Save the Leadmill Campaign said,
“Madden and Jacob Lewis are using a loophole in the law to force The Leadmill out of business. If they succeed, The Leadmill will no longer exist.”
“There is a Public Hearing on September 18th at the Town Hall, Sheffield. Please ask your readers to come down to hear the truth and make your voices heard. Sign up for more info at www.savetheleadmill.com“