In a city traditionally renowned for its vibrant music scene, two more beloved London venues are facing existential threats, this time due to nearby building proposals. The MOTH Club in Hackney and Studio 338 in Greenwich Peninsula are both grappling with the potential impacts of new residential developments that could jeopardize their futures.
Hackney’s MOTH Club, a former servicemen’s club turned eclectic venue for live music, comedy, and film nights, has issued a call to arms. The venue, which has been a cultural staple since 1972, is urging fans to object to a planning application for new flats on Morning Lane. The proposed development, they argue, poses a “serious threat” to their operations.
In a statement on Instagram, MOTH Club highlighted the venue’s historical significance and its ongoing role as a community hub. Management emphasised that the new builds could disrupt their activities and endanger the venue’s unique charm, with the club’s iconic gold ceiling potentially under threat. The club has asked Hackney residents to voice their objections to the council, quoting reference number 2024/1260.
This plea comes at a time when the UK’s independent music venues are under significant pressure. The Music Venue Trust has warned that the country could lose 10% of its independent venues by the end of 2023. Initiatives like the #OwnOurVenues campaign and The Artist Pledge, which encourages major acts to support grassroots venues, are crucial in this fight. The campaign recently received a boost when Coldplay announced it would donate a portion of their tour proceeds to the Trust.
Meanwhile in Greenwich, dance club Studio 338 is contending with the recent approval of a new development project, which includes three residential blocks and an 18-storey student accommodation building. The venue, known for its 24-hour license and cultural significance, fears that the influx of new residents will lead to noise complaints and potential operational restrictions.
During a recent planning meeting, concerns were voiced about the proximity of the new buildings to Studio 338. Barrister David Dadds, representing the nightclub, criticised a lack of communication from the developers and the council, as well as arguing that the development could lead to the venue’s closure, depriving the community of a key cultural asset.
“We say that within close proximity, these residents will undoubtedly complain and we will lose our business. That’s not right for us. We are a culturally leading music venue. We have been there for years. We have a 24 hour licence granted by your own council here to generate music,” Dadds told the meeting. Studio 338 management has not yet commented publicly on the approval of the plans.
Despite these concerns, Greenwich council’s planning board approved the project, with a suggestion for the developers to engage more closely with Studio 338. The developers have committed to starting work in spring next year, with completion expected by January 2030.
