Luminar fights to save Oceana Kingston after fatal stabbing

Four people have been charged with the murder of Jamie Sanderson in the early hours of 25 October, but Luminar has this week announced it will appeal against Kingston Council’s verdict to withdraw the club’s licence, which would have seen the Clarence Street venue close on 11 December.

“Having considered our position, we are going to appeal as we believe that the decision to revoke our licence was disproportionate and inappropriate,” said Luminar Group’s chief executive Peter Marks.

“Oceana has been a key part of the Kingston night-time economy for over 20 years and employs 200 people locally. It is a well-run, professional and secure venue that over 300,000 people enjoy every year.

No complaints​

“Our management team has worked hard to build productive relationships with the Police and local authorities. We are always conscious of our neighbours and have taken various steps to minimise disruption and have not received a single complaint from residents during the last six years.”

Sanderson died in an ambulance shortly after suffering a single stab wound. Since August, 15 assaults have taken place in and near the club, and the Metropolitan Police claim it has the highest associated crime levels in London.

But Marks, who saved Luminar from administration this time last year,​​insists that his venues are safe and secure, noting the precarious nature in which any nightclub has to operate.

Search & security​

“With over 300,000 customers coming through our doors every year, it is so sad that a tiny minority intent on criminal activity ruin it for the majority,” he added. “But the safety and security of our customers is and always has been our main priority.

“The club has one of the most sophisticated search and security procedures of any nightclub in the UK, including the use of ID scanners, metal detection arches and wands, over 100 CCTV cameras, a large team of fully trained and regulated door staff and an on-site Paramedic.

“We look forward to working closely with the local Kingston community, licensing and Police teams to maintain the safest possible environment for our customers to enjoy a great night out.”

Oceana Kingston, which is one of Luminar’s largest venues, will remain open until the appeal is heard at a Magistrates' Court, whose ruling will be final.

Luminar was at one point worth over £800m and operated more than 300 nightclubs and late-night venues. It was placed into administration in October last year,​​with just 75 clubs, debts of £85m and a market capitalisation just north of £700k.