Controversial plans to build a nine-storey block of flats next to a Sidcup pub renowned for live gigs have been 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 – with no affordable housing on site.

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.

A petition of just under 1,140 signatures has been given to the council, and 25 nearby properties have also objected to the scheme – claiming the development would stop the “cultural cornerstone” from being able to continue as it is.

Others have objected to the scheme over fears the town’s infrastructure won’t survive with a big influx of new homes close to the station.

“Flats and noisemaking environments cannot live side by side”, Mr Monks, an objector, told a planning meeting last week.

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“The Iron House is not a soulless disposable pub, it’s an institution built from scratch where amateurs become professionals and misfits find identity. It is a cornerstone of public culture.

“It’s turning a lovely town into a concrete jungle. A line needs to be drawn to protect our culture. Sidcup is being pushed to breaking point”.

Officers say experts have investigated whether live gigs blaring from the pub would disturb the 59 new homes and mitigating measures have been put in place.

The scheme has been scaled back since it first emerged over a year ago, dropping the number of houses following public concern.

However, the developer has not included any affordable housing, telling the council it’s not viable to include any and offering a cash payment of £690k instead.

Councillors passed the scheme after criticising the lack of affordable housing, claiming it is “shocking” none has been offered.

Conservative Councillor Linda Bailey said: “I am totally disappointed about the lack of affordable housing. It’s shocking that that hasn’t been provided.”

Cllr Wendy Perfect, Labour, added: “We have a deep-rooted housing crisis in this borough. Families are living in rooms not as big as our front rooms. I can’t support this application with no affordable housing. Residents needs homes.”

Schemes are exempt from offering affordable housing if it can be proved that they cannot viably make profit and include cheaper homes.

In place for not offering any affordable housing, a legal agreement called a Section 106 can be employed, making it hard for councillors to legally reject plans on the basis of affordable housing.

Colin McQueston, Coplan’s development director, said after the meeting: “This is a highly sustainable location adjacent to Sidcup station. The scheme will be available entirely for private sale or rent.

“The apartments benefit from a high level of amenity, club room, parking and children’s play area making it attractive to a wider residential demographic.”