Nightclub's closure 'likely' despite cash backing

A nightclub regularly named one of the best in the world is "increasingly likely" to close when its lease expires in July.

The team behind Bristol's Motion nightclub said it had submitted a "strong, carefully thought-out bid" supported by "significant financial backing" to its landlords but still fear they will have to leave.

They announced that the club's future was at risk in November, the following month it was once again listed in DJ magazine's annual Top 100 Clubs.

The owners of 74-78 Avon Street - where Motion is located - have previously said they will consider any bids put forward by the club.

A post on the club's Instagram said: "Our bid makes it crystal clear: Motion isn't just a nightclub. It's a vital piece of Bristol's cultural and economic ecosystem."

It said efforts were also being made to have the club listed as an Asset of Community Value.

"We'll keep pushing, we'll keep fighting and we'll keep working towards a future where Motion - and spaces like it - can thrive," the post said.

The venue opened in 2003 as a skatepark called SK8 & Ride.

In 2007, the venue expanded to accommodate larger crowds.

Since then it has hosted events such as club nights, theatre shows, live music, festivals, sporting events, corporate hires and private events.

The club has hosted artists such as Jeff Mills, Floating Points, Chase & Status, JME, Hunee, Mr Scruff, Patrick Topping and The Chemical Brothers.