Moth Club’s Future Jeopardized by Nearby Housing Development

Edie Kench-Andrews, general manager of the Moth Club in Hackney, has stated, “Without being able to make noise, we can’t make money.” She fears that the independent music and comedy establishment could be forced to close due to noise complaints if a residential block is constructed adjacent to it. The venue, which originated as a servicemen’s club in 1972, has hosted notable artists including Lady Gaga, Dave Grohl, and Rick Astley since 2015. Hackney Council has confirmed that the planning application is currently under consideration. Those associated with the development plans have declined to comment. Ms. Kench-Andrews further commented, “Without venues like the Moth Club, and many others like us, bands wouldn’t lift off the way that they do.” More than 6,500 individuals have signed a petition opposing two proposed developments near the club, asserting that they would place the independent grassroots venue “at serious risk” and negatively affect the area’s identity. Ms. Kench-Andrews elaborated: “There would be two blocks of flats built just on the left of us, which would overlook our smoking area and the back of our music venue.” Her concern is that, if approved, future residents might lodge noise complaints about the smoking area, the queue, and the bass from the music. She stressed, “Without things like that, you can’t really operate,” and reiterated, “Without being able to make noise, we can’t make money. And without being able to make noise, we can’t stay open.” Ms. Kench-Andrews mentioned that the club currently has neighbors on one side, but being “enclosed with housing” would significantly increase difficulties. She expressed that “A building like that getting built next to us will cast such a shadow over everything that we have worked for.” She also warned of the wider community impact, stating, “If we were to get shut down, it would be a monumental difference for the community,” adding, “Without places like us you wouldn’t be listening to half the bands you’re listening to.” Keith Miller, the event programmer for the Moth Club, recounted that the last venue where he worked closed because residents in new flats complained about noise. He remarked, “There’s venues shutting every year, and once they’re gone, they’re gone.” A spokesperson for Hackney Council indicated that they were unable to comment while the planning application is active. They added: “Planning officers will be assessing the applications against relevant planning policies, guidelines, other material planning considerations and any representations about the proposals.” Stephen Davy Peter Smith Architects, the firm that submitted the application, and Savills, the estate agents involved in the project, have both refused to provide a statement.