Queer spaces – shorthand for places where people who identify as LGBTQ+ gather – have long been vital, and their purpose is renewed with each generation. But over the past 15 years, prominent clusters of LGBTQ+ venues in some cities have seen a decline.
Against this backdrop, Bartlett researchers Ben Campkin and Lo Marshall have carried out a series of projects looking at venue provision and case studies.
One study, specifically focused on venues in Camden, clearly demonstrates how LGBTQ+ spaces are much more than just somewhere to meet. They offer a place to find community, much-needed support and education.
In particular, these venues played an important role in the borough in helping people through the 1980s and 90s’ HIV/AIDS epidemic, and continue to help with HIV education, prevention and community-building today.
Following on from their research, the team have been involved in discussions about the future of one particular Camden cabaret space: The Black Cap (one of the closest venues to The Bartlett and UCL).
Famous for drag since the mid-1960s, The Black Cap has been empty since it was sold in 2015, with various proposals put forward for a more generic venue and to convert the upper storeys into flats.
But campaign groups The Drama Queens Drag Theatre Company and #WearetheBlackCap, have been able to obtain and sustain ‘asset of community value’ listing, recognising its important heritage and social value.
Land prices in central London mean community purchase of such assets is rarely an option, however. And even the notion of a ‘resident community’, written into planning protections, is complicated, given that LGBTQ+ spaces generally draw and serve people from right across the city. All these issues about how value is assigned have had to be carefully navigated.
Camden Council has been receptive to these conversations, and the Bartlett team has helped set up roundtable discussions, drawing in diverse community groups, charities and local businesses to talk about the issues.
The Mayor of London has recently supported 10 LGBTQ+ venues with grants, including one in Camden. Although this is just a small proportion, it further signals to the important role of queer venues in London’s social and cultural life.
Moving forward, it’s vital we think collaboratively across academia, industry and local government about how to protect often precarious cultural venues. Recognising, as The Bartlett research has shown, that LGBTQ+ spaces have wide-ranging functions and active heritage value, and above all, create and support their communities.
Further resources
Contacts
Professor of Urbanism and Urban History, The Bartlett School of Architecture Co Director, UCL Urban Laboratory
Click to email. b.campkin@ucl.ac.uk
Senior Research Fellow in Equality Diversity and Inclusion within the Built Environment
Click to email. lo.marshall@ucl.ac.uk