Oxygene, a popular nightclub in Wolverhampton city centre, has had its operating licence suspended for three months following a police-led review. West Midlands Police urged the City of Wolverhampton Council to take action after multiple safety breaches, including a stabbing incident in March and a disorder involving more than 400 youths in April.
Authorities accused Oxygene’s management of neglecting crucial safety protocols ahead of these incidents. In March, a stabbing occurred outside the venue, with CCTV footage revealing security staff failed to intervene, assist, or promptly notify police. The footage was poorly managed, arriving at the hearing with incorrect timestamps and was labeled “damning” by Councillor Alan Butt, chair of the licensing committee.
In April, an under-18 event attracted an unexpectedly large crowd outside the club, leading to fights and disorder on Queen Street. Police described the scene as “out of control,” with attendees wearing balaclavas, throwing bottles, and resisting dispersal efforts. Despite claims that all patrons were over 18, some admitted to being underage. The sole security guard on duty was unaware of the actual number of attendees.
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Following these events, the council imposed strict conditions on Oxygene’s licence. Under-18 parties are now banned, with all events restricted to those aged 21 and over. Private parties must be invite-only with an over-18 guest list. Operating hours have been reduced, with the club closing at 3am and last orders at 2am. Additionally, door staff are required to conduct ID checks on every entrant.
Owner Alex Osiagor acknowledged the shortcomings, attributing some issues to security staff whose contracts were terminated. He expressed remorse and requested an opportunity to continue serving the community responsibly. However, West Midlands Police stated they had lost confidence in Osiagor’s ability to manage the venue and enforce proper risk assessments.
Further incidents revealed that Oxygene consistently breached licence conditions by failing to conduct searches, enforce ID checks, use metal detectors, or prevent entry after 3am. A particularly troubling event also saw youths climbing scaffolding near an abandoned building close to the club.
On April 4, police responding to the disorder encountered over 400 young males gathering outside Oxygene. Despite this, the club’s management could not verify attendance numbers. The event was originally intended as an invite-only party for students but rapidly escalated after being advertised on social media, resulting in overcrowding and violent clashes.
After receiving reports from licensing officers and police about the risks posed by such events, Osiagor agreed to cease under-18 functions. Nonetheless, a subsequent eighteenth birthday party with around 150 guests breached the venue’s capacity limits as confirmed by West Midlands Fire Service.
The licensing subcommittee’s decisive action aims to safeguard public safety and restore order to Wolverhampton’s nightlife, emphasizing strict adherence to legal conditions and responsible venue management.