08/05/2026
A LITTLE UPDATE… ❤️
Over the past year, Room 12 has grown into something we’ve been incredibly proud of…a venue bringing live entertainment & experiences back into Chichester for people of all ages!
Unfortunately, over the last few months, one neighbouring resident has taken exception to the fact that a city centre entertainment venue occasionally contains… entertainment! 🤯🤯 As ridiculous as it sounds, despite extensive sound management and countless adjustments on our side, one complaint has now put enormous pressure on a venue that was only just beginning to thrive…and honestly, we’re devastated.
Following ongoing complaints and recent meetings with Environmental Health and Chichester District Council, we’ve been left with no choice but to ‘pause’ our current Friday and Saturday ‘live band’ format whilst we work with all parties to establish exactly what we are able to offer moving forward and within what times & parameters.
Please do not be concerned..ROOM 12 IS NOT CLOSING🚨 Far from it.
We’re currently working alongside Chichester BID & Economic Development who have been extremely supportive throughout, whilst awaiting further clarification on our operation from EHO & CDC. We WILL find a solution that allows us to remain a viable & successful local business that continues giving Chichester the sort of venue many people have been crying out for over the years 🙏🏼.
However, we also felt we couldn’t wait indefinitely for clarity before speaking publicly. As our loyal customers, performers, hotel guests and supporters, you all have a right to know what’s happening.
It’s particularly frustrating as we were only just getting started…and we had some BIG names lined up for Chichester this year 👀 The concern specifically centres around the larger live band setup/PA system, which is why DJs and more controlled entertainment formats are still able to continue.
So for now:
✅ Thirsty Thursday continues until 3am as normal
✅ We are working on keeping key events such as ‘Bandeoke’ and ‘Start Me Up’ running (but until we have clarity from EHO these have been ‘paused’ 😔)
✅ On weekends we’ll still be bringing DJs, themed nights, and more to the venue 💪🏼
‘Start Me Up’ in particular means a huge amount to us. What began as a small under 18s open mic has already helped local young performers gain confidence and experience on stage, with some now performing at major festivals and events beyond Chichester - proof that giving young people opportunities locally genuinely matters! 🙌🏼
The reality is that on average, two pubs a day are currently closing across the UK, and grassroots music venues continue to disappear at an alarming rate year after year. We’re determined not to become another statistic.💪🏼
Whilst we may not currently be able to run live bands on Friday & Saturday nights until we receive further clarification from EHO, we promise Room 12 will still be a place to celebrate and have a great night out — whatever your age 😎
So please continue to pop in, support the venue, support local hospitality, and support independent entertainment in Chichester ❤️
As a company we’ve proudly been part of the city for over 21 years, and one thing we can promise is that we’re resilient. We’re not going anywhere - we’re simply evolving!
👉 So, what DO the people of Chichester want from Room 12 moving forward? More brunches? Comedy? Cabaret? Interactive nights? Day parties? Themed events?
We’d genuinely love to hear your ideas while we work through this next chapter. Thanks again for all the support so far ❤️ Watch this space for updates!
