Forsters wins Ministry of Sound instruction

Forsters has recently won an instruction from the iconic world leading"home of dance music and the world's best nightclub" Ministry of Sound in relation to the proposed development of a 41-storey residential tower block directly opposite the club.

Concerned that the development will lead to noise complaints from residents and, ultimately, the loss of their licence and closure of the club, Ministry of Sound has campaigned tirelessly to safeguard the future of the club, which employs 200 people in Southwark.

In October 2011, planning permission for the proposed development was refused by Southwark LBC. However, the Mayor of London exercised his "call-in" powers in December 2011 because of the potential for regeneration of the area. This means that the Mayor will re-determine the outcome of the planning application himself. Ministry of Sound has emphasised that whilst they oppose the development in its current form, they would be in favour of development on the site which would not be detrimental to their continued existence.

The public hearing, set for 26 February, has now been deferred following representations submitted by Ministry. The parties are now being encouraged by the Mayor to negotiate a compromise scheme.

Planning partner Tim Taylor leads the cross-practice area team advising Ministry of Sound in relation to all aspects of the proposed scheme and the planning process.