A MUMFORD BUILDS A VENUE

London is getting a new venue in what's increasingly becoming a central cultural hub, Kings Cross. Lafayette will be a 600 capacity space that's being launched by Mumford & Sons member Ben Lovett following the success of his first live venue, Omeara.

The new space, which opens early next year, promises a tiered mezzanine, “impeccable” sight lines and a “world class” sound system. It arrives shortly after the closure of legendary 300 capacity venue The Borderline in Soho, which closed its doors after 30 years at the end of August due to rising rents and business rates and redevelopment plans in the area.

As is the case with Omeara, independent promoter Communion will be booking Lafayette, which will be located on Goods Way just off Pancras Square and Granary Square—next door to Universal Music's new U.K. HQ.

Lovett's Omeara, which holds a capacity of 320 and opened in 2016, has fast become a go-to destination for breaking new talent and hosting special shows with established acts.

Discussing his new project, Lovett said: “I’m forever committed to pushing forward a new era of music venues that truly elevate people’s expectations of what that experience should be, and I believe London ought to continually strive to be at the forefront of the entertainment industry on a global stage, as the best city in the world.

"It’s still early days in the venue’s construction but, this time, not only do we know exactly what it will be and why we’re doing it, but we’re now extremely confident that we know how to deliver it too!”