London Mayor Ken Livingston has confirmed today that the Astoria Theatre looks set to finally close.
Rumours about the closure of the central London venue have long circulated, with 35,000 people reportedly signing a petition in attempt to prevent its demolition.
With regards to preventing the closure, Livingstone said: “There are some instances where that just physically isn’t possible. The construction of (new underground railway line) Crossrail means that the Astoria can’t be saved.”
He did say though that a new venue would be built at nearby Tottenham Court Road: “We’re basically putting in a vast train station but the developers that have actually drawn up the scheme for the area are replacing it (the Astoria) with a larger live music venue.”
Livingston also revealed he is now plotting a ‘live music strategy’ in order to protect landmark venues in the city after other venues such as Hammersmith Palais and The Spitz have been forced to close their doors in recent months, reports BBC 6 Music.
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This is terrible news – seen some of my all-time favourite gigs at the Astoria; Wilco, Franz Ferdinand, Elbow…
And the contradiction of Livingston coming up with a plan to “save” landmark venues whilst demolishing one is unbelievable.
It is just marketing that is ruling the world.
Astoria is probably my favourite london venue, THE VENUE you must play if you want to be big. I saw there countless gigs.
I was at the latest Hammersmith Palais night with the Good the Bad and the Queen, I’ll go to say hello to the Astoria too.
Difference is the Palais wasn’t used as much as the astoria is.
what a shame, mr Livingston!
yeah this is really sad. seen some amazing shows there. the place was a shit hole but that was part of its charm.
Totally agree Rich. Great venue,completely filthy and run down but have some good memories it will be sad to see it go. Too many places being flattened now. I even felt sad when our own Army and Navy turned into a sports bar now thats been flattened too. Hope Ken sticks to his word, more venues and more live music. You cant beat a good indoor gig.
Seen some of my best gigs were here; just such a great place to watch bands, intimate yet big enough to get a good crowd. I shall never forget the nights there when the whole floor seemed to move. Always a great atmosphere. RIP!
They should transform the Zavvi stor round the corner into a music venue when that closes for good,
would have potential for a good layout due to the basement there.