SANKEYS nightclub is to close indefinitely this summer, due to the brand focusing on Sankeys Ibiza, it has been announced.

The famous Manchester venue, which has played host to debut performances from the likes of The Chemical Brothers and Daft Punk, plus live performances from big names such as Bjork and Moby, will end an era of club culture in the city with a farewell party on Monday 6 May. 

“Who knows when we will be back in Manchester, or if we ever will be back, or what comes next in this great city I love. All I can say right now about what happens next is quite simply watch this space.”

The announcement, which came via the club’s Twitter page, is already trending on the social media site. While much of Manchester’s clubbing community is shocked and saddened at the closure, some are also questioning whether it’s part of a clever marketing plan that will in fact see the club reopen after summer. Nevertheless, Sankeys boss David Vincent had this to say:

 “I have decided to close Sankeys in Manchester indefinitely this summer as I focus my attention on our third year in Ibiza.

“I want our Ibiza project to be the best club in the world, just like what we have achieved previously in Manchester, as I get the feeling this could be our summer.

“But I need my production and staff from Manchester to come to Ibiza with me to achieve this goal and therefore both clubs cannot be open at the same time.”

David Vincent - SankeysDavid Vincent - Sankeys

It’s just three years since Sankeys was voted the best club in the world by DJ Magazine readers, ahead of Fabric and Ministry of Sound in London and Amnesia and Pacha in Ibiza. However, there is still a glimmer of hope for the Radium Street venue according to Vincent.

He said: “I have had some truly amazing memories in Manchester, many brilliant highs including being recognised for contributing significant culture to the city of Manchester at a national museum and also quite a few challenging lows, in a journey which will continue around the world.

“Who knows when we will be back in Manchester, or if we ever will be back, or what comes next in this great city I love. All I can say right now about what happens next is quite simply watch this space.”

Sankeys Manchester

The club’s history will end with a 12 hour set (from 1pm - 1am) on Monday 6 May featuring Joris Voorn, Jozef K and more. Advanced tickets cost £15. Visit www.sankeys.info.