Investigation Underway Following Nightclub Incident

A structural engineer is investigating after seven people were injured at Manchester nightclub Factory 251 when part of the ceiling collapsed.

Reports have revealed that four men and three women suffered injuries in the incident, with witnesses stating that plasterboard fell from the ceiling at the venue on the city’s Charles Street around 02:30 GMT.

A spokeswoman for North West Ambulance Service said six of those affected were taken to Manchester Royal Infirmary following the collapse at the site, which is the former home of Factory Records.

The BBC reports that investigations have been begun to check the cause of the incident and that the club is expected to be re-opened later.

A spokesman for the club has also offered sincere apologies regarding the incident.

Expert Opinion

It is worrying to see news of this incident emerge, particularly with it coming at a time when similar collapse incidents at venues have been in the media in recent weeks. <br/> <br/>"We represent victims who were injured in the high-profile ceiling collapse at the Apollo Theatre in London’s West End before Christmas, and have seen first-hand both the physical and psychological toll that an incident of this nature can take on those involved. <br/> <br/>"Anyone heading on a night out would never expect such an incident to occur and it is likely that those involved in this collapse will be keen for answers regarding what happened, as well as reassurances that steps are being taken to prevent it from happening again. <br/> <br/>"As with many of the cases we are involved, it is vital that lessons can be learned from an incident like this so that health and safety of both the general public and staff at such sites always comes first."