The Last Chapter for Coventry’s LTB Arts Centre
Monday 25th November - Katie Light
“Other than this place, I can’t think of any other venues in Coventry that allow this level of creative freedom.”
Coventry’s cherished arts hub, LTB, is preparing to close its doors in January. For over three years, this vibrant space has been a haven for creativity, serving as both an exhibition venue and a performance stage. Its closure has been met with a mix of sadness, gratitude, and optimism, as founder Alan Denyer hints at the possibility of a new venue on the horizon.
Photo credits: Katie Light
LTB has been a cornerstone for Coventry’s arts scene, offering students and creatives a unique place to express themselves. With its multi-story exhibition layout, the space has fostered an environment where artistry thrives. “It’s a very creative space, and they’re open to any ideas,” says Harvey Field, the event coordinator. “People come here and go, ‘Wow, there’s somewhere I can go to demonstrate how I feel.’”
Harvey also highlights LTB’s collaborative spirit, calling it “one big collaboration project.” As a musician, he’s eager to utilse the space for creative projects like filming music videos, a sentiment echoed by many who have benefited from LTB’s welcoming ethos. “People come here and go, ‘Wow, there’s somewhere I can go to demonstrate how I feel,’” Harvey added.
Warwick University band Mirage, featuring Elias, Nick, Ollie, Jacob, and Johnny, is among the acts that have performed at LTB. For them, the venue’s special atmosphere has been essential for artistic growth. “It’s great to give an opportunity like this,” the band members share. “By allowing people to go to these events, we help our band grow and also help the community. It’s a really nice place… it’s intimate.”
Ollie - Mirage band member. Photo credits: Katie Light
This sentiment underlines the vital role LTB has played in fostering a sense of belonging and creative freedom. Without it, Coventry risks losing a rare space where grassroots culture can flourish. “Other than this place, I can’t think of any other venues in Coventry that allow this level of creative freedom,” laments Harvey.
Alan Denyer, LTB’s founder, reflects on LTB’s journey with a mix of pride and practicality. “There’s some frustration that we couldn’t stay in the space longer, but I always knew it was a short-term opportunity,” he admits. Thanks to a favorable lease arrangement and business rates exemption, LTB has operated far longer than anticipated, and will continue on until early January.
Alan Denyer - photo credit: Alan Denyer via awd restorations
So, What is Next for LTB?
Alan is optimistic about the future, hinting at a new venue that could materialise soon. “It’s looking likely I’ve sorted a follow-on space,” he reveals. “That’ll be an exciting new time for us if it comes off.”
LTB has always been more than just a venue—it’s been a catalyst for community connection and creativity. Alan envisions a legacy where others are inspired to create similar spaces across Coventry. “My ‘job done’ for Coventry would be seeing 10 or so other venues like LTB spring up, run by people we’ve inspired over the years,” he says.
The secret to success for the founder of LTB lies in keeping overheads low and making experimentation accessible. “Interesting spaces attract interesting people,” he explains. “People walk in and say, ‘Wow, what can I do here?’ It’s about making it easy to try out new ideas.”
As LTB prepares for its final curtain call, its influence on Coventry’s creative scene remains undeniable. While the loss is felt deeply, the potential for a new chapter leaves the community hopeful. After all, LTB’s spirit isn’t tied to a building—it’s a movement.
If you have an idea for their space before it closes, or would like to donate, please email ltbopen22@gmail.com
If you would like to see their upcoming events, please click here.