Another of the UK’s popular live music venues is under threat.
Bristol’s Fleece, which opened in 1982 and has hosted early gigs from the likes of Oasis, Radiohead and the White Stripes, has had its future put in doubt due to plans for a nearby, disused office block to be converted into privately owned apartments.
“The Fleece has thrived as a venue for 32 years,” owner Chris Sharp told the BBC. “One of the key factors in its success is its location. “The lack of residents in the surrounding streets has meant the venue has been able to offer live music seven nights per week and club nights until 4am at weekends without disturbing anyone.”
If approved the venue’s stage would be just 20m from the apartments, but already over 35,000 people have signed an online petition urging the local council to block any redevelopments.
“During its entire history The Fleece has not had any issues with noise complaints,” Sharp continued. “If the huge office block located right next door is given the green light to be converted into approx 80 privately-owned flats we would anticipate a deluge of complaints as soon as people move in.”
Today, the Fleece hosts live music seven days a week, and also arranges regular club nights.
