Music / alma vale studios
Alma Vale Studios facing closure without support
A beloved music studio in Clifton is in ‘grave danger’ of closing due to a rent hike imposed by the landlord.
Alma Vale Studios, which boasts a grand piano and state-of-the-art musical equipment, has been a recording, practice and teaching space for 50 years.
The landlord is increasing rent for the studio, which has no natural light, hot water, heating or fire escape, by 70%. They are also implementing a new yearly £750 service charge.
is needed now More than ever
The team are fighting the rise in fees which are threatening the space with closure, and need to raise £3000 for essential survey work and legal costs.
Campaign organisers Craig Crofton and Luke Cawthra have received support from Clifton Down councillor Tom Hathway and Green Party hopeful Serena Ralston – photo: Craig Crofton
They have launched a crowdfunder which has so far been backed by nearly 100 supporters but needs a handful more pledges to meet its target.
Campaign organiser and local musician Craig Crofton said: “Cultural spaces like Alma Vale are integral to our community’s identity and creativity. Your support ensures that they remain vibrant and accessible to all who cherish them.”
The money will pay for a survey to determine the fair market value for rent, following research that ascertained similar commercial lets in the area offer better facilities at lower rates.
They will then engage the surveyor to negotiate with the landlord, and hope to avoid the ‘nuclear option’ of filing a petition in country court.
Supporter Mike Crawford said: “There seems to be a concerted effort at present to drive people out of making music.
“About a week ago Matt Sampson announced Bink Bonk was to close as a live studio, now Alma Vale Studios are under threat. Use it or lose it. These are great affordable facilities that benefit every level of musician.”
The team has invested heavily in the studio space themselves, with acoustic engineering and sound proofing improvements, and an air filtration system.
Another backer, Paul Newport, said: “Local music studios are an essential part of the music scene, and really important to our culture. The rent hike is unjust and unwarranted.”
The campaign concludes: “Together, we can send a powerful message that the arts matter, and that cultural spaces like ours deserve protection and support.”
Organisers have said they will donate any contributions remaining after expenses to Acorn, a charity working locally to address housing challenges.
Find the fundraiser at www.gofundme.com/f/help-save-alma-vale-studios-in-brsitol
Main photo: Alma Vale Studios
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