A London gay bar is safe as plans to turn the popular venue into luxury flats has been thrown out by Westminster council.
London has lost a number of gay bars in the last 2 years including, Profile, Lower Profile, Green Carnation, The Black Cap, Manbar and Escape. The Yard, seemed to be next on the chopping block after a planning application to build flats above the site were lodged with Westminster Council.
However, plans have now been rejected and a second proposal was withdrawn by the developer. The site has been designated as an area of historical importance as the site is the last carriage yard in the area. The venue is one of the only sites in Soho with a sky opening, making it possible to drink and smoke within its confines.
Pinknews reports that Andy Jones, owner of The Yard, said:
“It is a great relief that the second application has been withdrawn from the Council by the landlord. The application would have severally damaged the last remaining 19th Century stables in Soho.
“I would like to thank everyone for their support towards the campaign.
“Hundreds of objections were formally made against both applications by residents, customers and the greater Soho community.”
Campaigners had sent over 600 messages to the council slamming the plans, which could have resulted in another London gay bar closing.
It is not known if the developer plans to lodge anymore proposals.
