6th November 2023
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Ioan Roberts, the owner of the venue, gives us a frank discussion on the future of the iconic Liverpool venue
A campaign to appeal to Liverpool City Council on the decision to allow a block of flats to be built without the correct acoustic proofing has gained momentum in the past few days.
The developer, Brickland, wants to implement windows on the building that owner Ioan Roberts says will, “almost certainly lead to noise complaints once residents move in”, adding “noise complaints get venues shut down”.
Liverpool Mayor Joe Anderson has weighed in, dismissing the issue in the past few days, adding “I don’t see what all the fuss is about because we are making sure that the developer is doing everything they are asked in terms of the acoustic work on the site”.
This is disputed by Mr Roberts, who added that the continuation of the current methods would be the venue’s “worst fears being confirmed”.
Mr Roberts spoke to us of the origin’s of the venue, adding that it was “stumbled upon by accident” whilst viewing other buildings, and that he “instantly knew it was the right building” upon entering.
Since opening its doors it has played host to many memorable gigs and parties in the city, solidifying its status as a Baltic triangle stable and a must go Liverpool venue.
The cultural impact 24 Kitchen Street has had in the regeneration of the Baltic triangle area has not gone unnoticed.
Asked about the impact of 24 Kitchen Street, Mr Roberts told us “24 Kitchen Street has created a buzz in the area that has made it marketable to young professionals”.
The area has become a hotspot particularly for students and young professionals, which many would attribute to the culture of the area, being a creative space, full of music, food and art.
It is this very marketability that is being invested in by developers, keen to generate income in the region, that is now threatening the future of the independent music venue.
Asked what potential solutions the venue and the council could mutually come to, Mr Roberts informed us of the idea of a “Deed of Easement”, which would essentially revoke residents rights to complain about noise from the venue. Discussions are ongoing as to what other possible resolutions may be available.
The issues facing 24 Kitchen Street are admittedly beyond their control, with Mr Roberts adding, “the ball is in the councils court”.
The main aim of the campaign is to build attention on the issue, as Mr Roberts expressed, adding “keep spreading the message and they will listen” and “expressing the issue is helping the cause”.
Mr Roberts then concluded on a defiant note, adding “We’re not going to stop until we come to a resolution”.
The campaign to #savekitchenstreet remains ongoing.
