A trailer for Electric Studios, the upcoming music venue in Sheffield, has been released, generating excitement among music fans. This venue will replace the historic Leadmill, which closed its doors in June 2023 after a 45-year legacy in the city. The closure followed a legal battle over an eviction notice, leaving the venue with three months to vacate the premises.
Electric Group, the operators behind various UK venues including Brixton Electric, confirmed in July that the Leadmill would be transformed into Electric Studios. The new venue is scheduled to open in February 2026, offering a fresh space for live performances and community events.
New Vision for a Historic Site
In the Instagram trailer, Electric Studios describes itself as “a vibrant, multifunctional event space” that aims to cater to a diverse range of musical genres. Mike Weller, head of music at Electric Studios, emphasized that “any form of music won’t feel out of place within these walls.”
The redevelopment is set to cost approximately £2 million and will feature a capacity of 1,050 for live gigs and 1,450 for club events. The venue’s owners plan to collaborate with both national and independent promoters, music labels, and brands to curate a dynamic array of events.
Feedback from the local community has played a vital role in shaping the redesign. Improvements will include better stage sightlines, a new sound system, and upgraded facilities such as toilets, cloakrooms, and staircases. Additionally, Electric Studios will provide a rehearsal room, communal area, and kitchen to foster a collaborative environment.
Dominic Madden, co-founder of Electric Group, expressed his commitment to Sheffield’s music scene, stating, “We are dedicated to a programme of substantial investment, refurbishment, and curation for it to thrive.” He emphasized the importance of respecting the building’s cultural significance while prioritizing the experiences of artists and fans.
A Legacy of Music and Community Support
The previous owners of Leadmill operated the venue since 1980, hosting performances from notable acts such as Arctic Monkeys, Pulp, and Bring Me The Horizon, as well as international stars like Muse and Coldplay. The venue’s final show featured Miles Kane on June 27, 2023, followed by a farewell event, ‘The Last Dance,’ the next evening.
Support for the Leadmill’s preservation was widespread, with many local artists and fans rallying against its closure. Richard Hawley shared his feelings of sadness regarding the venue’s loss, recalling his performances there, while Jarvis Cocker, frontman of Pulp, reflected on the venue’s historical significance to the band.
The Electric Group has pledged to maintain the site as a music venue, aiming to ensure it remains a cornerstone of Sheffield’s live music scene for years to come. Madden added that the redevelopment is expected to create over 100 jobs, further contributing to the local economy.
As Electric Studios prepares to open its doors, the anticipation builds for a new chapter in Sheffield’s rich musical heritage. The venue promises to be a beacon for both emerging and established artists, reinforcing the city’s reputation as a vibrant hub for live music.
