A petition to save Sidcup’s only live music venue has been launched as plans have emerged to build more than 100 flats in high-rise blocks towering above it.

Coplan Estates have revealed a scheme to build 163 apartments in Station Road but regulars of the Iron Horse fear the plans will mean the end of the pub.

A petition claims that “If these plans are to be approved, these developers will make a profit out of robbing the town of an ever-growing scene of arts and culture.

“It is vital to the local community as the area's only designated live music venue.”

The petition was nearing its 400 signature target within three days of it starting.

Julie Crabb, who manages the Iron Horse, said it would be concerning if flats were built above the venue.

She said: “We are a live music venue. There aren’t many of us left, we are closing down all the time.

“These houses will have children, and you can just see that they will be saying we are a noise nuisance. It doesn’t work.

“This is my home and my livelihood, I’ve worked hard to do some good for Sidcup. I’ve worked hard to get us on the scene and now we have some fantastic musicians playing here.”

Julie, who has been managing the Iron Horse for three years, said she now doesn’t know what the future will hold for the venue.

She said: “We have a really lovely rapport with the bands that play and it is lovely to see them get better and rise up the ladder. It’s hard to get somewhere to play and it’s nice to see musicians flourish.

“Coplan said the Iron Horse won’t be affected, but I can’t see how that will work.”

Coplan Estates said they were seeking to develop the Co-Op site and held a consultation on September 8 and 9 where plans for a new 11,000 sq.ft food store and 136 homes were presented to the public and feedback is now being assessed.

A second petition to save the Co-Op has also been launched.

The developers confirmed they would work with the council to deliver 30 per cent of affordable housing, in line with council policy and that they would work with the Iron Horse owners to see what enhancements can be made.

Colin McQueston, Head of Development at Coplan Estates says “The excellent location of this site provides the ideal opportunity to provide much needed housing within Sidcup, whilst maintaining important local facilities such as the food store and Iron Horse Pub.

"We look forward to working closely with Bexley Council, The GLA and the local residents to shape our proposals moving forward, and we hope to submit a planning application by the end of the year."