THE landmark Standard Music Venue in Walthamstow has been bought by a developer who plans to convert it into a Turkish supermarket, sources claim.

Owner Punch Taverns announced last week that a deal over the site was due to be completed by the end of June, signalling the end of the building's 25-year history as a live entertainment venue.

However, leaseholders of the Blackhorse Lane venue require six months notice to quit, so the venue is expected to continue operating until December.

Punch Taverns has refused to reveal the identity of the buyer.

But well-placed sources said the new owner intends to open the supermarket by modifying the existing building, rather than demolishing it.

The land sold includes the Tryst bar next door, a car park and a cab office.

Meanwhile fans and promoters have reacted with sadness to news of the impending closure, which would leave Waltham Forest without a dedicated music venue.

Dave Hughes, one of Walthamstow's longest serving music promoters, said: "This is another sad loss for the borough.

"This is another treasured amenity like the cinema and dog track which once helped put Walthamstow on the map.

"The Standard gave a chance to lots of young bands who will have nowhere to go now.

"We do other pubs that have live music but such comparatively small venues won't have enough space. It's a great shame."

Gary King, of promoters Club Bus Wind, which runs a weekly unsigned band night at the Standard, said: "It's going to have a big impact on the music scene.

"There's no other venues like it until you get out to Camden. There's going to be nowhere else for all the young bands to go."

Barnaby Judge, of Walthamstow band The Candy Runts, said: "I am distraught. It's been rumoured for so long I didn't think it would happen.

"It's really going to be missed."

Jon Clemens, drummer with Woodford Green band W.I.T, said: "The Standard is a piece of music history, so many different bands from all over have performed there.

"It's a tragedy and will basically take Walthamstow off the music map of London now for rock acts."

Amanda White, co-leaseholder of the venue with husband Paul, said she was yet to receive confirmation in writing but was confident that a deal had been done.

She declined to comment on reports that it will be turned into a supermarket.

But she added: "We're very sad because this place is our life but we want to make the most of it these last six months."

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