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For years the London Astoria, has showcased up-and-coming rock bands, as well as hosting intimate shows by mega rock groups. Bands from all over the world dream of playing this legendary venue. I, for one, am no different.The dream could be over next year as the Astoria could close, after being bought by Derwent Valley, a property development company.
There are rumours that it will be turned into a new development of shops, office space and flats. Derwent already own much of the land and buildings surrounding the Astoria, and could develop the entire block into a retail complex.
OK, we all know that the Astoria needs a damn good overhaul as a venue, BUT if we lose this, that's yet another legendary venue lost forever. The Marquee may still exist in name, but the legend has been lost twice. Once again the corporates will think of money before music.
What venue are bands going to dream about playing now, if we lose the Astoria? If we want to save it, we need to act, and we need to act now. According to press sources, the Mean Fiddler holds the lease until Dec 2008, but what happens after that.
In fact, the main threat to the Astoria, comes from the London Crossrail link where a compulsory purchase order exists, which would totally bulldoze the Astoria in order to use it as a works yard for the development. Funding for this has yet to be decided, but hopefully if we get enough support, then we can keep the Astoria as it should be - the top Central London venue, or at least ensure that a similar flagship venue remains in Central London!! For the latest developments - please check the blog pages!
Join me, the 50ft Woman , in campaigning to save the Astoria. Support the Save the Astoria Campaign - support the SAC!
Keep watching this space - it looks like we have the backing of some big press boys and girls, which just might change things!! ...Add yourself as a friend and then post this as a bulletin and pass on the message!Please also sign Jade and Sarah's petition here
and check out http://www.savetheastoria.org for other plans to help.
*NEW* you can also view Dean's documentary on saving the Astoria
