This past Easter weekend broke new ground in the UK underground dance scene. Police got called to an illegal rave at an abandoned Toys R Us store in Hounslow, London. That’s right, your childhood toy store became Raves R Us for a night. One rebel spray painted the words straight on the sign, a photo that was posted by the Met Police following their raid on the party.
What led to this auspicious movement? The once popular American toy company has been running a closing down sale since the UK arm of the firm went into administration. The closures earlier this year led to its abandonment, which created the most opportune moment for delighted party people. Whatever excites and scares them at the same time, means they should do it. Hundreds attended but only five were arrested; plus a sound system was seized.
Police categorized the scene as an “unlicensed music event” then tweeted about busting the party. The event took place on Bull’s Bridge Industrial Estate, Hayes Road, UB2. People were advised to not travel to this area as all attendees and ticket holders were being turned away.
#ResponseTeamC and #ResponseTeamB have disrupted an unlicensed music event in #Hounslow and five arrests made. #411TX pic.twitter.com/pwHbRxKCCA
— Hounslow MPS (@MPSHounslow) March 31, 2018
What’s more is that this is not the only instance of illegal raves reported in London. Recently, illegal raves have doubled in just one year. Some areas have authorities using drones to help combat the numerous unlawful gatherings.
The Metropolitan police identified 133 unlicensed UK raves in 2017. According to the Association of Licensed Multiple Retailers (ALMR), more than half of all London clubs shut down which could be the reason behind the increased popularity of unlicensed parties. With less legal venues to express themselves, looks like creativity had to step in here.
