One of London’s best-known concert halls could “face threats” if plans to build 90 homes right behind the venue go ahead.
Union Chapel, a music venue, homeless centre and rehearsal space on Compton Avenue, hosts hundreds of gigs from big name acts every year including Tom Jones, Beck and Brian May.
Organisers fear potential residents will complain about noise after gigs finish between 10pm and midnight as there is no loading bay at the back of the chapel, which will face the housing development.
Notting Hill Housing plan to build 90 homes in two buildings up to five storeys high on Canonbury Road. After consultation meetings with local residents, who complained the size of the development would obscure views of the chapel, the housing developer cut back the number of homes from 134 to 90 and reduced the size of one of the buildings from seven storeys to five.
Organisers also worry construction noise will prevent theatre productions, which hire a rehearsal room at the back of the venue that is not soundproofed, from renting out the space.
“If we’re not able to make our profits from hiring out the rehearsal space then the homeless charity and everything we do could face threats,” assistant venue manager Becky Miller said.
A petition, signed by objectors who want a loading bay installed and the back of the chapel soundproofed from construction noise, has over 4,000 signatures.
Ms Miller added: “Our main concern is that potential residents will complain about noise. We’re objecting to the plans as they stand as we want sensible measures to be put in place but we’re not opposed to the housing being built.”
The council will decide on Monday whether to approve the proposed development but planning officers have recommended the scheme for approval.
A spokesperson from Notting Hill Housing said: “As the Chapel is already in a residential area, the council did not consider the issue of noise to be a problem but we have incorporated high levels of sound insulation into our design nevertheless.
“Our plans include the provision for funds to the Chapel which can be used towards extra noise insulation in their own building. We now believe we will be providing beautiful new homes in the area, in a way that is respectful to the historic and very special Union Chapel.”
