Iconic London gay venue receives boost in campaign against redevelopment

Historic south London gay venue the Royal Vauxhall Tavern has been granted Grade-II listed status by the British government, strengthening the position of supporters leading the campaign against its redevelopment.

The much-loved Tavern was recently acquired by Austrian property firm Immovate, however this new turn of events could enable the Future of the Royal Vauxhall Tavern campaign to raise the funds to buy the venue and save it from closure.

Campaign spokesman Rob Holley told the Evening Standard that they are "confident" of raising the money thanks to the increased exposure they received from the building getting listed and Boris Johnson and Sir Ian McKellen publicly backing their cause.

Holley further revealed that if they are successful the RVT "would be completely protected - unless an earthquake happened."

He added: "Premises that do get community ownership get a new lease of life. People would spend more money there."

However, talks between the campaigners and Immovate are "at a stalemate at the moment."

A spokesman for Immovate refused to comment on development plans. James Lindsay, the pub's manager and former co-owner before the sale to Immovate, has said he plans for the RVT to remain as a "diverse entertainment venue" and that "currently we are still reviewing the implications of the listing and are assessing various options with regard to the future of RVT."

[Via: Evening Standard]