Bristol's iconic boat venue Thekla under threat from new development

A spokesperson for Thekla, moored in the Mud Dock area of the city's Floating Harbour, says that: "Our beloved ship is under threat from proposed residential developments across the harbour in Redcliffe. Across the UK, an estimated 35% of grassroots music venues closed down between 2007 and 2015, many due to issues like this. Let's not let this happen to Thekla!"

Although a boat, Thekla can't be moved elsewhere: "there aren't any permanent moorings large enough and, if there were, they would likely be close to existing residences."

The venue - a favourite in the city and popular with touring bands - hosts regular live music and club nights. The likes of Portishead/Beak>'s Geoff Barrow, Katy B, Fickle Friends, Roni Size, LOW, Wheatus, Amber Run, Tim Burgess of The Charlatans, Gabrielle Aplin, and Lauren Aquilina have all already voiced their support for the #SaveThekla campaign.

The proposed Redcliffe Wharf development seeks to convert a range of derelict buildings into "affordable homes, office, and leisure space". A council planning committee will look over the application on 8 November - it's already been recommended for approval.

"Sensible and adequately planned residential developments near to grassroots music venues like the Thekla mean that residents and music lovers can happily co-exist," says Mark Davyd of The Music Venue Trust in a statement. "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. Recognising the existence of an iconic music venue like Thekla starts with a thorough environmental impact study that specifically understands the noise in the area."

"Properly understanding noise and activity results in great design for any refurbishment or new building, ensuring noise is managed and controlled, and in commitments such as Deed of Easement and accurate marketing to future residents," continues Davyd. "We are concerned if that process has happened so far in the proposed development near Thekla and would encourage the developer to start it."

DHP, who own Thekla (alongside other important UK venues such as Oslo, Rock City, and The Borderline), claims that a "woefully inadequate" noise assessment carried out took place on a quiet Monday and Tuesday (when Thekla could have been closed).

"It’s vitally important that planners take into consideration existing venues when making decisions on new developments," adds Thekla general manager Alex Black. "The decision they take could potentially have a disastrous impact on the Bristol music scene and night-time economy. We’ve seen too many venues fall victim to residential developments and being forced to close."

Bristol East MP Kerry McCarthy, who supported a similar campaign involving fellow Bristol venue The Fleece, says she's sponsoring a new bill that could help protect venues.

This is why we need an agent of change law. @spellar is bringing in a Bill soon. Are you in touch with @musicvenuetrust? https://t.co/PwOUO6dc2F

— Kerry McCarthy (@KerryMP) November 6, 2017

I’m sponsoring a Bill being introduced soon by @spellar with the backing of @UK_Music and @musicvenuetrust, calling for #agentofchange law.

— Kerry McCarthy (@KerryMP) November 6, 2017

Labour MP Thangam Debbonaire, who represents the Bristol West constituency in which Thekla is located, has also voiced support for the campaign:

I want to #SaveThekla - wonderful place, important part of Bristol's nightlife

— Thangam Debbonaire (@ThangamMP) November 7, 2017

Thekla promise an update after "following the meeting of the Council's Planning Committee on Wednesday". Use the #SaveThekla hashtag if you want to show your support in the meantime.