One of the prominent LGBTQ+ bars in central London is set to shut its doors, with its proprietor expressing concern that Old Compton Street in Soho has lost its “LGBT identity.”

Jeremy Joseph, the owner of G-A-Y Bar, announced on Instagram that it was “time to say goodbye” to the establishment.

Back in January, Joseph indicated that the bar would be listed for sale following the temporary closure of another venue he manages, Heaven nightclub, which occurred after a security staff member was accused of raping a woman. The staff member was later acquitted of all charges.

With the imminent closure of G-A-Y Bar, Joseph mentioned that he would redirect his focus to the Charing Cross nightclub, stating: “I aspire to keep Heaven as a second home for countless LGBT+ individuals.”

Discussing the reasons behind the bar’s closure, Joseph noted: “Old Compton Street has been both my residence and my workplace.”

“When I launched G-A-Y Bar, my intention was to create one of the safest and most proudly LGBT streets — a space where individuals could be themselves and feel secure.”

“In my view, Old Compton Street has lost that sense of LGBT identity.”

“Old Compton Street was not merely a street; it was a united community. Unfortunately, that is no longer the case.”

Joseph expressed gratitude to Soho Estates, the landlord of G-A-Y Bar, for allowing the venue to remain rent-free during its pandemic closure.

“Soho Estates deserves significant recognition for supporting Soho’s venues,” he remarked.

“And once again, they have shown their support. Recognizing the toll the past four years have taken, they have given me the chance to step away and focus on Heaven.”

In February 2024, Joseph revealed that Heaven’s landlord, The Arch Company, intended to raise the rent by an additional £240,000, following an automatic increase of £80,000.

He reported that, after going through a two-year process and incurring over £100,000 in costs, the outcome of a rent review arbitration was favorable for Heaven.

“The reality is, the arbitration result was crucial in determining whether Heaven could continue to operate profitably,” he stated.

Although the nightclub will face a rent increase, he believes it is manageable.

Joseph acknowledged that while the closure of G-A-Y Bar is unfortunate news, it would enable him to dedicate his efforts to sustaining Heaven’s operations.

“From this day forward, I aim to continue making Heaven a second home for many LGBT+ individuals,” he added.