I’m sure many of you have been awaiting news from us on the decision from the Planning Inspectorate on the proposed residential development adjacent to the historic and iconic George Tavern. Unfortunately for Landlady Pauline and her family, staff and for music fans across London, they have decided to overturn Tower Hamlet’s original refusal and Swan Housing are now essentially free to proceed to build six residential units right next to the George. The venue will continue to open its doors to up and coming bands and music fans for the foreseeable future. However, once the flats are completed it hugely increases the risk of a noise complaint which would seriously curtail the ability of the venue to host live music. It’s only thanks to live music events that the George is able to make ends meet. The battle isn’t over though. Pauline is currently considering whether to appeal the Planning Inspectorate’s decision at the High Court. If you think you might be able to help her with regard to this (maybe you’re a solicitor or planner with experience of these issues?) then please don’t hesitate to let us know… email us at info@musicheritageuk.org and we’ll put you in touch. Furthermore, no demolition or development can take place until a programme of archeological work has been implemented and approved by the local planning authority. If you are, or know, an archeologist please get in touch! The site has extensive and interesting history; the George Tavern, former Halfway House dates back to the 1500s, a time when it was surrounded by botanical gardens. On behalf of the George Tavern… a huge thanks for your support to date! We were overwhelmed with the response from London’s music community to our petition and delighted that so many felt so strongly that the George Tavern should be saved. The issue of noise is currently being addressed in a national petition led by English folk-punk troubadour Frank Turner. If you love the George, then please do sign his petition which is calling for the ‘agent of change’ principle to be introduced in planning laws in the UK. Essentially it would mean a common sense approach to noise issues and planning with the onus on new developments to pay to soundproof existing music venues. http://www.change.org/p/sajid-javid-mp-adopt-the-agent-of-change-principle In the meantime live music lives on at the George! They’ve a full diary of amazing events coming up over the next few weeks and months. The best way to show your support is to come down one night for a gig and a few drinks! The George would love to see you there. Find out what’s on at http://www.thegeorgetavern.co.uk/events.html Many thanks for your support! James http://www.musicheritageuk.org