A live music venue has had its licence temporarily suspended following reports of an assault outside its premises last weekend. 

Police were called to The Empire n Corporation Road, Middlesbrough at around 11:20pm on March 23 following reports of an assault.

Upon police arrival, the male victim had left the scene and enquiries have not yet led to him being traced. He is described as being aged in his early twenties, wearing dark clothing and possibly a white hooded top.

Officers would like to speak to this man in connection with the incident and to check on his welfare, and police are continuing to liaise with the nightclub as enquiries continue.

Now, the council following an application from the police, have decided to temporarily suspend the premises' license with a review hearing to take place in a month.

Cleveland Police said: "Following a hearing on Thursday 28 March, Cleveland Police and Middlesbrough Council have released the following statement.

"At Middlesbrough Council’s Licensing Committee meeting, Councillors met to consider an application from Cleveland Police for a Summary Review of the Premises Licence in respect of The Empire following an incident which took place at the premises on Saturday 23 March 2024.

"After hearing submissions from all parties Councillors agreed to the request from Cleveland Police to suspend the premises licence as an interim step until a full review hearing can be arranged within the next four weeks."

A statement on the venue's social media says: "Further to a hearing of the licensing committee which we attended today, Middlesbrough Council have taken the decision to temporarily close The Middlesbrough Empire with immediate effect.

"Whilst we understand the concerns that were raised by a recent incident, we are nonetheless disappointed.

"We await the full written decision, and we will then take a few days to consider our response and what actions need to be taken. Any response is now delayed by the bank holiday weekend.

"We remain absolutely committed to providing a safe nighttime space in Middlesbrough.

"We apologise that we can’t deliver our Easter weekend program, and any ticket refunds will be processed as soon as possible.

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"Whatever you end up doing this weekend, we hope that you have a wonderful time and that you keep safe. We will see you soon."

This is not the first time the venue has seen its licence temporarily suspended. 

In February of 2023, the venue had its licence suspended whilst it worked with the council and police department to create a “secure and enjoyable environment.”