Major LGTBQ+ venue 'will bring community together'

Community groups have welcomed the biggest LGBTQ+ event space outside London, ahead of its opening in the autumn.

Haus Of Fun, a super club which can hold up to a 1000 people, will open in Liverpool's Pride district in October.

Owners Funnyboyz say the venue will be a vibrant hub for people who are LGBTQ+, with a particular emphasis on supporting the trans community.

Scarlett Rose, project co-ordinator for Spirit Level, a transgender support group, said "having safe spaces for our community is imperative - now, more than ever".

"Given the country's current political climate in regard to our trans siblings, having a welcoming and inclusive space like Haus of Fun is very much needed," she said.

The owners say the venue will transform the former site of Navy, Dysco and Benidorm Bar into a 1,000-capacity destination across three floors.

The Haus Of Fun will be open seven days a week, from dawn until dusk, and will host an array of events, including speciality gatherings designed to offer safe, inclusive spaces for all.

The Navy currently hosts five group events aimed at the trans community, including a book club and movie night, "embodying the spirit of unity and celebration at the heart of this new super club", the owners said.

"What's so great about this is that it isn't just about nightlife," said Ms Rose.

"There are also a varied range of events on offer, such as coffee socials, and informative and fun panels and talks.

"It's so important to bring our community together in solidarity and celebration.

"Having a space like this is a wonderful opportunity to begin building bridges, by coming together and allowing all of us to celebrate each other and recognise that we are a community of joy."

Listen to the best of BBC Radio Merseyside on Sounds and follow BBC Merseyside on Facebook, X, and Instagram. You can also send story ideas via Whatsapp to 0808 100 2230.