Controversial plans to build a nine-storey block of flats next to a Sidcup pub renowned for live gigs are set to be approved.

Coplan Estates plans to bulldoze the Co-Op in Station Road and build a part three, eight and nine storey tower block close to the station.

The plans sparked a campaign from pub-goers at The Iron Horse, next door to the shop, who say new homes that close to the boozer could spell the end of the town’s vibrant live music scene.

Catherine Bennett, who works at the Iron Horse, said today they plan to object to the scheme at next week’s planning meeting.

She said: “We will be attending the meeting and speaking against the plans. This is a perfect venue for live music and we want that to be able to continue”.

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A petition of just under 100 signatures has been given to the council, and 25 nearby properties have also objected to the scheme – claiming it’s over-development.

One objection, backing the future of the pub, said: “The Iron Horse has been a secure hub for the ever-expanding local live music community in Sidcup since reopening four years ago, providing a platform for hundreds of new musicians to learn and develop their craft in front of an audience and also for professionals to put on shows and earn their living.

“It is vital to the local community as the area’s only designated live music venue, giving the town a needed opportunity to expand on its culture.

“The development will negatively impact on the continued operation of the Iron Horse as a live music venue.”

Officers say experts have investigated whether live gigs blaring from the pub would disturb the 59 new homes.

A new report, recommending councillors approve the plans, explains: “A specialist acoustic consultant undertook additional detailed technical assessment of this issue.

“This focussed on noise breakout from the venue and, in particular, the low-frequency bass components associated with amplified music.

“As a result of this more detailed assessment, the initial specification of acoustic glazing mitigation measures have been increased.”

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Officers say the new homes would go a long way in reaching the borough’s new housing targets, and have earmarked the plans for approval at a meeting next Thursday.

This is despite the plans not including any affordable housing, with the developer saying it’s not viable to include any.

“Nevertheless, the applicant has offered a financial payment in lieu of affordable housing of £600,000,” officers said in a new report.

“It is recognised that providing on-site provision is challenging in this instance, therefore a payment in lieu of on-site provision is considered acceptable.

“The development has been assessed as resulting in no significant harm on surrounding residential amenity.

“Moreover, the proposal will provide satisfactory living conditions for future occupiers.”