London’s Troxy Increases Capacity to 3,600 in £1.5 Million Transformation

East London’s legendary Troxy venue has marked a major milestone with the completion of a £1.5 million transformation project, increasing its capacity to 3,600—the largest expansion in its 93-year history. The Grade II-listed Art Deco building, which has hosted everything from cinematic screenings to iconic live performances since its 1933 opening, now features newly reopened basement spaces that were last used decades ago. The project, funded in part by a restoration ticket levy, aims to enhance audience flow, comfort, and the overall live music experience.

The venue’s capacity has grown by 500 from its previous 3,100, a 16% increase that will allow more fans to enjoy concerts while also providing promoters with incremental revenue opportunities. Tom Sutton-Roberts, managing director at Troxy, emphasized the focus on improving the fan experience, calling the project a “major undertaking” that unlocks parts of the building vital to its future.

Simon Eaton, head of live events at Troxy, highlighted the importance of the expansion for the broader live music industry. “This increased capacity helps promoters who are currently selling out quickly to earn incremental revenue, which is vital to the industry which is trying to keep ticket prices accessible for fans,” Eaton said. The venue’s commitment to accessibility and fan-first experiences is further underscored by its partnership with Broadwick Live, which aims to build on Troxy’s legacy while preserving its independent spirit.

Troxy’s transformation comes at a critical time for the UK’s grassroots music scene. The Music Venue Trust’s 2025 Annual Report revealed a stark downturn, with 30 venues permanently closing between July 2024 and July 2025, and another 48 ceasing to operate as gig spaces. Over half of the remaining grassroots venues reported no profit in the last 12 months, with an average profit margin of just 2.5%. The sector also saw a loss of over 6,000 jobs, representing a 19% decline in employment across the year.

Despite these challenges, Troxy’s expansion signals a commitment to sustaining live music in London’s East End. The venue’s recent high-profile gigs, including The Cure’s epic 2024 show—dubbed “The Show of a Lost World”—have cemented its reputation as a must-visit destination for both established and emerging artists. That concert was later released as a live album and even streamed in cinemas, showcasing the venue’s ability to deliver unforgettable experiences.

Looking ahead, Troxy’s leadership is optimistic about attracting new promoters and acts to the venue. “We’re hoping this will help us establish another wave of new promoters who are keen to bring special gigs to the East End,” Eaton said. With the venue’s capacity now at 3,600, Troxy is poised to continue its role as a cornerstone of London’s live music landscape, even as the broader industry grapples with financial and operational challenges.

Upcoming events at Troxy include performances by artists such as Tricky and Marta Zlakowska, further solidifying its status as a vibrant hub for music lovers. The venue’s transformation not only enhances its physical capacity but also reinforces its commitment to preserving and evolving the live music experience for future generations.

Source: NME, Troxy official announcement, Music Venue Trust 2025 Annual Report