Plans for a new late-night venue at the former site of Cargo nightclub in Shoreditch have been rejected by Hackney Council due to concerns over a potential increase in crime. Shmail Khan, the previous owner of Cargo, faced strong opposition from over 100 residents who objected to his proposal for a ‘late-night bar’ at the location. The local community expressed fears of the negative impact the new venue could have on the area.
Cargo was forced to shut down in December 2021 following accusations by the police that it had not adequately addressed issues of crime and violence on the premises. Law enforcement data revealed a significant number of thefts and violent incidents occurring at the venue shortly after it reopened post-lockdown. The Metropolitan Police criticized Khan, labeling him as unfit to operate such a venue and suggesting that the new establishment would likely mirror the problematic history of Cargo.
Khan’s lawyers defended the proposed 500-capacity venue as not being a nightclub, countering the Met’s allegations of incompetence. However, Hackney Council’s licensing committee found the opposition from local residents to be compelling, with doubts raised about the ability of Khan’s team to prevent crime and violence in the area. Reports indicated a decrease in crime rates in Shoreditch since Cargo’s closure, prompting concerns over a potential resurgence of issues if a similar venue were to open under Khan’s management.
Despite attempting to pivot to a restaurant and bar named Viaduct after the closure of Cargo, Khan’s new venture also faced challenges and was eventually shut down in 2023 following a violent incident outside the premises. Law enforcement highlighted a significant decline in crime following the closure of both Cargo and Viaduct, reinforcing the belief that introducing another venue under Khan’s control could potentially reignite past issues in the neighborhood
Read the full article from Mixmag here: Read More
