Petition launched to protect Hackney's MOTH club amid development plans
Two separate planning applications have been submitted to local councillors to build flats on Morning Lane, where the iconic East London venue now operates
Hackney’s MOTH Club has launched a petition to oppose plans to build a block of flats next door to the storied venue, plans that could have “devastating consequences for its future," it says.
The site first came under threat in September when plans to develop the neighbouring building were submitted to Hackney Council.
On Thursday (November 21), the venue released a statement via Instagram describing two new separate proposals to “develop a block of Flats on Morning Lane”.
Read this next: Crowdfunder launched for new book celebrating London's independent music venues
“Both developments, if approved, put one of London’s most loved independent grassroots venues at serious risk,” reads the statement. “As well as impacting the identity of the local area.”
“One of the planned blocks will have balconies directly overlooking MOTH’s smoking area and back onto the stage wall (see drawings) a move that would lead to conflicts, noise complaints, and a serious threat to the venue’s ability to operate.”
MOTH Club, founded in 1972, has been a pillar of the community for years, platforming local artists as well as hosting the likes of King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard, IDLES, Jarvis Cocker, Lady Gaga, Caroline Polachek, Sprints, Wunderhorse, Amyl and the Sniffers and more.
Read this next: Home of Leeds' MAP Charity at risk from proposed housing development
It has called on its local community to object to the plans, launching a petition yesterday (November 21), and gaining over 3500 signatures in just a day.
In August, Leeds’ beloved venue Cosmic Slop announced its charity partner MAP is under threat from a proposed housing development, which could put the nightlife venue at risk. While Manchester’s The Carlton Club launched a fundraiser to help fight a recent eviction notice that same month.
The Music Venues Trust (MVT) estimates 35% of grassroots venues have closed over the past 20 years.
Sign the petition to protect MOTH club here
Meena Sears is Mixmag's Digital Intern, follow her on Instagram