A heated dispute has erupted over the iconic Chasers nightclub in Kingswood, with its owners expressing outrage at squatters who have taken over the premises. The club, a beloved fixture in the local nightlife scene, closed its doors on Christmas Eve 2024, but a year later, it finds itself at the center of a controversial legal battle.
The owners claim that the building was broken into on December 28th, 2025, and by the time they arrived, the squatters had already established themselves, preventing access. This has left the owners in a difficult position, unable to reclaim their property and facing a complex legal situation.
But here's where it gets controversial: under UK law, squatters can gain rights if they can prove they didn't forcibly enter an empty building. This means that the onus is on the owners to take legal action and physically remove the squatters themselves.
The owners of Chasers are not taking this lightly. They argue that the squatters have not only broken into the building but have also caused damage to the locks, security systems, and CCTV cameras. They describe this as a new low for Kingswood and express deep concern about the potential risks, including the increased presence of drug-related activities and the threat of fire, which could pose a danger to the entire community.
"These people have broken in through the front door, disabled our CCTV, and destroyed our security and fire alarm systems," they claim. "We've always worked closely with the police to reduce crime, but now we're at their mercy, relying on public reports to take action."
The situation has left the owners feeling helpless, as they watch their assets being removed and potentially sold for drugs. They urge the public to report any suspicious activities to the police, providing a crime reference number for anyone with information.
This case highlights the complexities of squatter's rights and the challenges faced by property owners. It raises important questions: Should the law be more stringent when it comes to commercial properties? How can we balance the rights of property owners with the needs of those seeking shelter?
What are your thoughts on this controversial issue? Feel free to share your opinions in the comments below, and let's spark a discussion on this intriguing legal matter.
