The independent live music venue 'under threat' of closure amid new flat proposals
The new plans for 200 new flats could be "detrimental" to Meraki
Last updated 3rd Mar 2022
Liverpool live music venue Meraki has launched a campaign to save the venue following new proposals to turn the large warehouse opposite into new flats.
The 'Save Meraki' campaign aims to raise the attention of developers through public representation before it reaches the council planning stages.
The North Dock venue have urged the public to give feedback to the developer, ELG Planning, to make the developer aware of Meraki’s presence within the area.
A draft letter of objection has been uploaded to Meraki's website, which can be used and shared to help reach a suitable solution for both sides.
Meraki have said that once the plans reach the council planning stages it is likely that they will be running a second campaign targeted at the council's planning department.
"Meraki's survival is under serious threat"
In an Instagram post with over 2,000 likes, Meraki said: "Any residential property located next to a music venue is extremely likely to garner noise complaints; once this process starts it means the venue has to adapt it's operation, most likely to a point where we cannot operate with music and late operating hours - meaning the culture we've all come to love and cherish is likely to be no more.
"The only solution is soundproofing to a very high standard - which typically will not happen without ourselves and you shouting about it and making a stand to the developers - letting them know without this, Meraki's survival is under serious threat."
The venue on 3 Dickson Street has been open since 2016 and has become a landmark venue for Liverpool's underground nightlife.
Co-owner, Jack Tilston, said: "The proposed plans could be detrimental to Meraki if the flats are not sound proofed correctly. We are fighting to be heavily involved in the planning process to ensure the flats get the appropriate proofing.
"Gentrification is becoming more common within the music and cultural sector, but it’s nothing new to the city. Just look at Cream and Kazimier."
The venue have said that their campaign has received some positive feedback from the Music Venues Trust and Liverpool Music Board.
More than 200 apartments installed at the warehouse
The proposed flats would be installed at the Bonded Tea Warehouse on Great Howard Street by ELG Planning on behalf of County Durham-based property firm Mandale Homes.
There could be more than 200 apartments built into the Grade II listed building.
The application seeks to create 216 new homes, consisting of 149 one-bed apartments, 57 2-bed apartments and 10 2-bed duplex apartments.