UPDATE: The future of a proposed podcast studio, The New Blxck Ltd, hangs in the balance as the Licensing Sub Committee meets on January 6, 2025. This application, aimed at transforming 10 Quaker Street in Shoreditch, East London, is sparking significant community debate and concern.
The proposed studio, featuring a 60 square metre open plan space and multiple small studios, intends to provide a creative hub for podcast production and small-scale events. However, its potential impact on local residents is under scrutiny due to a history of noise complaints and community objections.
Concerns have been voiced by local residents and officials alike, with Kathy Driver, Principal Licensing Officer, highlighting the saturation of licensed premises in the area, which may exacerbate disturbances. “There are numerous licensed premises selling alcohol nearby,” Driver stated, underscoring the potential for increased nuisance and disorder.
Residents are particularly worried about issues including noise, safety, and the overall impact on their quality of life. Parents with young families have expressed fears about community safety and property values, while others raised concerns about parking and traffic.
The studio’s management has responded to these objections, asserting that The New Blxck is “not a nightclub, late-night bar, or entertainment venue.” They took ownership in February 2025 and claim to be committed to respecting local community needs, emphasizing that alcohol sales will be limited and primarily for event attendees.
Despite these reassurances, the Environmental Protection agency opposes the application, citing concerns over noise disturbance in the Brick Lane Cumulative Impact Zone. The committee will need to weigh these objections against the proposed studio’s assertions of responsible operation and community respect.
The Licensing Sub Committee will convene at 6:30 PM on January 6 to deliberate on the application. All eyes are on this meeting, as the outcome could reshape the local landscape for creative media in East London.
Stay tuned for real-time updates as this vital decision unfolds. Will The New Blxck be able to navigate the community’s concerns, or will it face rejection from the committee? This is a developing story you won’t want to miss.
