Music / Thekla
Thekla faces a fight for survival
Music fans have united in an outpouring of public support after the shock news that a new housing development across the water from the Thekla might put the future of the much-loved venue in serious jeopardy.
More than 800 people retweeted this message from the famous venue in less than two hours, with acts such as Eats Everything, Reverend and the Makers and Lauren Aquilina also showing their support on social media.
Venue bosses are concerned that residents in the future Redcliffe Wharf development could force the boat to shut due to noise concerns.
The development has been recommended for approval by officers and goes to the planning committee at City Hall on Wednesday.
Losing the Thekla would have a disastrous impact on the Bristol music scene as the venue is recognised as a standout by touring bands and a launchpad for local names such as Idles and Lice in recent years.
Music Venue Trust chief executive Mark Davyd said: “Sensible and adequately planned residential developments near to grassroots music venues like the Thekla mean that residents and music lovers can happily co-exist.
“That outcome starts at the planning application stage when a good developer recognises the cultural value of the existing music venue and takes steps to protect it.
“We are concerned if that process has happened so far in the proposed development near Thekla and would encourage the developer to start it.”
Bristol24/7 contacted Aspect360, a Clifton-based independent planning service who are leading on the planning proposal for Redcliffe Wharf, but a representative was unwilling to comment.
Read more: Banksy’s Grim Reaper replaced on the Thekla
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