A beloved Black Country nightclub and live music venue has delivered a devastating blow to its patrons, confirming it will shut down permanently after one final New Year's Eve celebration.
Final Night at The Waterfront
Red By Night, situated at The Waterfront in Brierley Hill, Dudley, will open its doors for the very last time on Wednesday, December 31. The venue, which first launched in October 2019 on the former site of PJ's nightclub, announced the shock news via a heartfelt statement on its Facebook page.
The management stated the decision was "not taken lightly" and that staff had "fought hard to keep it going." The statement expressed profound sadness, marking New Year's Eve as the final opportunity for customers to experience the unique venue.
Economic Pressures Force Closure
The closure has been attributed to the harsh economic climate facing many independent venues across the UK. Ongoing rising costs and a sustained decline in footfall were cited as the primary reasons, making the business model unsustainable.
"Like many independent venues across the country, the reality we face is difficult," the statement read. It went on to explain that despite relentless efforts to adapt and rework the business, "sometimes passion alone isn't enough" to overcome financial hurdles.
A Legacy of Music and Memories
Red By Night was notable for its theme, which paid homage to the Black Country's industrial heritage. This was reflected in its name and interior decorations, which included features like a canal barge.
The venue's farewell message celebrated its role as a community hub: "Red By Night has been a place where people met, celebrated milestones, danced without judgement, sang at the top of their lungs, discovered new music, supported live acts, and made memories that will stay with us forever."
Gratitude was extended to all customers, performing bands, DJs, and every current and former staff member who contributed to its story.
Ahead of the final curtain call, the venue is framing its last night not as a sombre goodbye, but as a celebration. The statement concluded with an invitation: "New Year's Eve will be our final night together... One last dance, one last singalong, one last night under the lights."
