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Could the music stop at Putney's Halfmoon? (From Croydon Guardian)
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Could the music stop at Putney's Halfmoon?
5:30pm Thursday 26th November 2009
Putney’s iconic Halfmoon, which has played host to The Rolling Stones, U2, and Kasabian, could be closed as a music venue after being hit by the recession.
One of London's last independent live music venues, which has been running since 1963, has had falling custom, with the tenant owing money to the landlord, Youngs.
The pub has been a launchpad for hundreds of up-and coming stars, including the Small Faces, Wombats, Newton Faulkner, Natasha Bedingfield and Jamie Archer of X Factor.
Young’s have told the pub’s manager James Harris he must leave the pub by January 31.
Mr Harris said the brewery had not helped the situation by doubling his rent in six years, and said losing the “engine room” venue would be a big blow for new bands and the music industry.
He said: “We are at the grass roots of live music and the Halfmoon is an engine room for rising bands throughout the UK, who are now running out of quality venues to play."
Youngs - which has a long tradition in Wandsworth - said it had already spent £200,000 on refurbishment.
Youngs closed the historic Ram Brewery site - where brewing began in 1581, making it the oldest site in the UK where beer was continuously produced - in 2006.
Wandsworth council leader, Councillor Edward Lister, voiced his support for the venue.
He said: “We are proud to have the Halfmoon in our borough. It's a unique place which is popular with live music fans of all ages.
"It's like the Boat Race: it puts Putney on the map. It is one of London's best known music venues and a great place for young bands. It would be devastating if it became the latest victim of the recession.”
Youngs have refused to confirm rumours it could be turned into a gastropub.
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