Bristol's live music boat venue Thekla is hosting an event that will explore the issues venues are facing from the increasing number of residential developments around cities.
The event, which will take place at 6pm on Wednesday, December 6, is being led by the Night Time Industries Association (NTIA).
A Q&A session will be followed by a panel discussion on how to implement a '360 degree’ approach where night time industry operators, legislators, police, local planning authorities and residents are all part of the discussion.
Julie Tippins, of Thekla owner DHP Family, said: “We are very pleased to be hosting this NTIA event which will focus on a very hot topic for us - the issues venues face with the increasing number of residential development in city centres.
“DHP Family understands the housing pressure the country and particularly young people face and why local authorities are keen to see as much residential development as possible to ease the problem and meet targets set by government.
“This should be done in a cooperative way with existing bars, venues and clubs to ensure their future is not jeopardised as a consequence. The key is to find ways to work together to overcome the challenges.”
Thekla's future is itself under threat from a residential development of flats opposite the venue, which has been granted planning permission. It is feared that could lead to potential noise complaints from nearby flats if developers fail to install adequate soundproofing for residents.
"We are pleased that the developer of Redcliffe Wharf has verbally and in writing committed to a new noise survey and we wait for them to provide us with the details of when and how this will be carried out so we can assist them in making this a robust evaluation, which can protect both the Thekla and residents in the future,” added Tippins.
By Marissa Rodney
