This week’s dagger in the heart of the Edinburgh music scene is the news that the Leith Depot is slated for closure.
A statement on the venue’s Facebook page related how the new landlord of six weeks intended to apply for planning permission to demolish the block where the club is situated and to build housing and retail units.

The venue, which opened in November 2015, has formed part of a revitalised music scene towards Leith, replacing the Meridian Bar which had less of a reputation for music and food and more for criminal activity.

Since then, it has attracted a range of indie bands to its small 60-capacity upstairs live area, with the likes of The Nightingales and Blue Orchids, Vladimir and Lush Purr among those to grace its stage (well, a corner of the room).

If approved, the planned demolition won’t happen until 2019, which gives the venue’s owners time to make plans and fight the closure.

Their statement concluded: “We will of course be objecting their plans, but realise that we are very small opposition. We will be sincerely gutted if their plans are approved and you’re support would be very welcome.”

Edinburgh-based musician Al Chivers, aka DTHPDL, said:
“One of the first things that everyone can do is email the Leith councillors; Chas Booth, Adam McVey and Gordon Munro to express your views on Edinburgh losing yet another music venue to profiteering and student flats. Their email addresses are:
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
There’s also a hustings with councillors next Wednesday (19th April) from 6.30-8.30pm at the Leith Community Education Centre in the Newkirkgate. Go along, ask questions, demand answers, make a fucking noise about it.

More on the venue can be found at www.facebook.com/leithdepot