London`s MOTH Club Wins Second Planning Battle
London`s MOTH Club has secured a significant victory in its campaign against neighbouring residential developments after Hackney Council rejected a second planning application near the grassroots music venue.
The decision, made on 29 October 2026, follows more than two years of uncertainty over proposals to construct residential properties next to the East London venue, which campaigners feared could expose the club to future noise complaints and licensing restrictions.
The latest application, submitted by developer M Ganatra, proposed a six-storey building containing seven residential apartments and ground-floor commercial space at 6 Morning Lane, adjoining MOTH Club.
Hackney Council rejected the proposal, citing several concerns, including insufficient assessment of noise from the existing music venue, affordable housing provision, transport arrangements and environmental sustainability.
An earlier application for six apartments and commercial space had already been rejected in March 2026.
The campaign to protect MOTH Club attracted considerable public and music industry support, with approximately 35,000 people signing a petition and more than 27,000 emails sent to councillors.
The Music Venue Trust and other industry organisations supported the campaign, highlighting the importance of the Agent of Change principle, which requires developers of new residential properties near existing music venues to address potential noise conflicts.
In a statement welcoming the decision, the venue`s management said:
"Remember, this was never just about MOTH Club. It`s about every space like ours, in every town and city on the planet. If we can do it here, we can do it anywhere."
MOTH Club, located in Hackney`s historic Old Trades Hall, has operated as a live music venue since 2015 and has hosted performances by both emerging and established international artists.
The venue`s live music programming is handled by London-based Bad Vibrations, with Keith Miller associated with its booking operations.
Although both development applications have now been refused, the developer retains the right to appeal the latest decision until April 2027.
The case highlights the continuing challenges facing grassroots music venues as residential developments expand into established nightlife and live entertainment areas.