Skky Nightclub Will Lose Its Business License

BIRMINGHAM, AL - The Birmingham City Council voted to revoke the business license of a nightclub in Five Points South that has a history of being the setting for violent crime. Skky Nightclub on 11th Avenue South, which has been open for five years, was the site of a shooting over Labor Day weekend, and another shooting in 2016. Birmingham law enforcement officers have said the business puts an unnecessary strain on police resources.

Police Capt. Ron Sellers told the council his precinct includes several entertainment districts with numerous bars and nightclubs, but none of the business in Lakeview or Avondale have the problems Skky has had. As well, several businesses in the area have closed, such as the Starbucks across the street from Skky, McNolia's gift shop on 11th Avenue and the Firehouse Subs restaurant next door to Skky. While the nightclub has not been cited as the reason for the businesses closing in the last year, many city leaders feel the Five Points South entertainment district is hurting for business because of places like Skky and the Break, which has also been the scene of criminal activity.

The club has also been known to admit patrons who are under 21, and to ignore fire marshal warnings for crowds.

Henry Walker, the attorney representing Skky, told the Birmingham City Council there is no evidence that suggests violence occurs every night at the club, and that the club has more security than required by law. However, the council voted unanimously to revoke the club's license.

Image from Joshua Gaunt/WBRC