Support has flooded in to keep a Reading nightclub operating following a fight that required a large police presence.
Thames Valley Police has called for the entertainment licence for the Gun Street Garden in the town centre after two incidents required a police presence in one night.
The first, at around 2am saw a man allegedly attack a woman, and the second at around 3am descended into public disorder.
The incidents occurred in the early hours of Easter Sunday, during the venue’s ‘Playboy Mansion’ event featuring DJs, dancers and bottle service.
The licence is currently suspended, effectively banning the sale of alcohol, the playing of music and more at the venue.
This suspension could be extended or the licence could be revoked altogether at a crunch Reading Borough Council meeting after a statutory consultation into the review saw 32 letters of support being written.
Isabella Mills wrote: “I’ve been part of the team since September 2024 and have witnessed firsthand the positive impact the venue has had on both my personal development and the wider community.
“From the moment I started working there, I felt genuinely valued.
“The team is professional, respectful, and committed to creating a safe and welcoming space for both staff and guests.”
She then referred to the four licensing objectives, which are the prevention of crime and disorder, to uphold public safety, prevent nuisance and protect children from harm.
Ms Mills added: “This contributes not only to public safety but also to the protection of children from harm, as younger adults entering the venue are safeguarded through strict ID checks and responsible service policies.
“Gun Street is more than just a nightlife venue — it’s a well-run, community-centred space that aligns strongly with all four licensing objectives.
“It offers safe employment, vibrant social experiences, and a structured, responsible approach to entertainment. I strongly urge you to support its premises licence and allow it to continue providing these benefits to the Reading community.”
The venue has even received support from Councillor Imtiyaz Shaikh, recently elected Mayor of Swindon.
He said: “I have known the owner personally through their community work in Swindon, where they have operated a nightclub that has consistently supported local causes and positively contributed to our town’s cultural and social scene.
“Their venues have not only hosted vibrant, well-managed nightlife but have also been used to support charitable initiatives and bring communities together.
“I have found the owners to be cooperative, responsible, and committed to working in partnership with local authorities to ensure a safe, well-regulated nightlife environment. I have every confidence that, if given the opportunity, they will continue to uphold those same standards in Reading. It would be a shame to lose a venue that has the potential to contribute so positively to the town’s cultural life. I hope you will take this into consideration as you review the status of Gun Street Garden.”
Of the 32 letters of support, 12 were valid, with 20 being invalidated as they were provided without an address.
The club in Gun Street was previously in trouble in 2023 after drugs were discovered in the toilet and a security guard was involved in a confrontation with a female clubber.
The licence is due to be decided by the council’s licensing applications sub-committee on Thursday, May 22.
