Six Till Six was instructed by Francis Taylor Building to undertake an independent observation and assessment of activities taking place at Section HQ in Hackney. The report was prepared in relation to licensing considerations surrounding live DJ performances and the application of the Live Music Act. 

Six Till Six attended and observed a live event featuring five DJ performances, assessing the nature of the venue, the activities taking place and whether the performances should be considered live music. The work involved examining the venue’s role as a cultural space, its operational model and its contribution to Hackney’s wider night time economy. 

The report concluded that Section HQ operated as a genuine grassroots music venue, providing a platform for both emerging and internationally recognised artists. It also assessed the operational management of the venue, including crowd management, noise control, dispersal procedures and community impact, finding a high standard of management throughout the event. 

The project showcased Six Till Six’s expertise in the intersection between licensing, culture and the night time economy, providing specialist evidence on live music, venue operations and licensing policy.