Hackney council helps Passing Clouds fight closure

  • Published
    Mon, Oct 31, 2016, 15:30
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  • The London venue has been listed as "an asset of community value," which may help keep it open.
  • Hackney council helps Passing Clouds fight closure image
  • Protesters fighting to keep Dalston venue Passing Clouds from closing for good have received a boost from Hackney council. The building that houses the popular music venue was sold in November 2015 to property developers Landhold Developments. Passing Clouds' owners have since been embroiled in a battle to extend the venue's lease with the developers, which, in August, led to Passing Clouds being evicted from the property. The building was subsequently repainted grey and placed under 24-hour security. Supporters of the venue then launched a campaign to keep it open, which included a march through Dalston on September 17th and a bid to Hackney council to give Passing Clouds status as "an asset of community value" (ACV). That bid has just been granted. This means that community members may comment on development plans and are able to express interest in buying the property. The battle to save the venue continues, with Passing Clouds hoping to renegotiate the lease or purchase the property outright. Various music industry figures have been vocal in their support, including Roots Manuva and members of Franz Ferdinand and Basement Jaxx. Ninja Tune cofounder Matt Black also spoke out, calling Passing Clouds "a true community asset, as evidenced by the huge support of the community protesting its closure." Photo credit: Jesus Figueirido
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