Brighton's Pipeline Venue Secures Future Through Community Ownership Scheme
The Pipeline on Little East Street has been purchased by Music Venue Properties, backed by Prime Minister Andy Burnham and DJ Fatboy Slim.
A Haven for Emerging Musicians Finds Security
One of Brighton's most cherished independent music venues has found a new lease of life, thanks to a community-focused ownership scheme that's gaining momentum across the UK.
The Pipeline, situated on Little East Street, has been purchased by Music Venue Properties (MVP), an initiative dedicated to acquiring buildings that house grassroots music venues and providing them with operators committed to their long-term success. The acquisition marks a significant milestone for the venue, which has built a sterling reputation for championing emerging artists and providing an essential platform for live music in our city.
With the building now held in community ownership, The Pipeline gains the stability it needs to continue supporting artists, audiences, and Brighton's wider music ecosystem well into the future. The move protects the venue from the uncertainties of the commercial property market, ensuring it won't be converted into residential apartments or otherwise lost to the community.
High-Profile Support for Grassroots Music
The scheme has attracted considerable backing from figures who understand the importance of nurturing musical talent. Prime Minister Andy Burnham has recently invested in MVP, while DJ, producer, and long-time Brighton resident Norman Cook – better known as Fatboy Slim – has also invested substantially in the organisation.
Fatboy Slim recently performed a sell-out gig at The Pipeline, demonstrating his continued connection to Brighton's vibrant music scene. Speaking about his investment, he emphasised the vital role grassroots venues play in developing future talent.
"Our thriving music business needs grassroots venues," he explained. "The next Coldplay or Radiohead need places to hone their skills and find their audience."
He highlighted the challenges facing independent venues in the current financial climate, noting that community ownership provides a solution. "Community ownership means they pay fair rent and have security, knowing their venue will not suddenly be turned into a block of flats," he said.
Other notable musicians have also invested in MVP, including Squeeze co-founder and frontman Glenn Tilbrook and singer-songwriter Katie Melua, reflecting broader support for protecting grassroots music spaces.
An Investment in Brighton's Cultural Future
Fatboy Slim described MVP as "ethical investment that protects venues but also has a sound business model," encouraging musicians, music fans, and investors alike to support the scheme.
"I urge anyone to join me, whether you are a successful musician wanting to give something back to the lower rungs of the food chain or a music fan who wants to feel part of the wonderful community," he said. "It's not a donation, it's an investment in the future of our wonderful music industry."
The Pipeline joins a growing network of grassroots venues across the UK that have been secured through MVP, including The Snug in Atherton, The Ferret in Preston, Le Pub in Newport, The Bunkhouse in Swansea, The Booking Hall in Dover, The Croft in Bristol, and The Joiners in Southampton.
For Brighton's music community, the acquisition represents a beacon of hope – a guarantee that The Pipeline will continue to nurture the next generation of musicians and remain a vibrant cultural space at the heart of our city.
Source: Scheme backed by Fatboy Slim and PM buys Brighton venue