Legendary gay club wins special status
Heaven, London’s legendary gay club, has been awarded special status as an historic gay venue by its local Westminster City Council.
The council has awarded it an “Asset of Community Value”, which means that the local LGBT+ community will have a say in its future should it ever be put up for sale.
Ian Adams, the Westminster Council LGBT+ lead said: “Granting Heaven special status gives the local LGBT+ community a say in the future of this historic venue, as we know how important it is to protect the character of Soho and the wider West End.
“The club celebrates its 40th anniversary this year. So much has changed for the better for LGBT+ people in that time, but we’re determined our city remains a welcoming and friendly place for people of all walks of life. As an asset of community value we hope Heaven can celebrate many more birthdays.”
Heaven first opened in 1979 in the railway archways off London’s Villiers Street, on the site of roller disco Global Village.
Now the home to G-A-Y and other popular one-nighters, Heaven has also featured live performances form Madonna, Kylie Minogue, the Pet Shop Boys, Lady Gaga, Grace Jones, and Divine, among others.