Reprieve for Ministry of Sound in fight over flats

The Ministry of Sound nightclub has been saved from possible closure after proposals to build flats next door were rejected by planners.

Owners feared that the club would have to shut after developer Oakmayne put its plans for a 41-storey block to Southwark council.

They believed a successful application would expose them to complaints by residents about noise from the club, which attracts 300,000 visitors a year.

Lohan Presencer, Ministry of Sound Group's CEO, organised a campaign to fight moves to convert Eileen House at Elephant and Castle. This included a petition signed by 25,000 people.

The scheme was rejected by five votes to one on the grounds that it breached planning policies, including a lack of affordable and social housing.

Mr Presencer said the decision would secure the jobs of the club's 200 staff - and of many local businesses, including pubs, taxi firms and takeaway shops, that depend on its customers.

"We do some great community work and it's fantastic that we get the chance to continue to be the beating heart of Southwark," he said. Chart-topping Tottenham rapper Wretch 32, signed by the club's record label, said he was "so pleased" the plans were rejected.

He added: "The Ministry of Sound is a London landmark that has played a key role in music for 20 years."

Radio 1 dance DJ Judge Jules, a regular at the club who appeared on posters backing the campaign, said: "That is fantastic news for this iconic institution. London needs nightclubs. I and my peers are absolutely delighted by this news."

Oakmayne chairman Christopher Allen said: "We are confused and bitterly disappointed by the planning committee's decision, made against their own officer's recommendations and the weight of expert advice.

"An obsolete Sixties eyesore remains and the area, which badly needs regeneration, will continue to stagnate. We are now considering our options."

1991 Club opens in a disused bus garage in Elephant and Castle

1994 After three years as a "dry" venue the club gets its alcohol licence

1995 Ministry of Sounds starts its own record label with release of The Annual

2005 Southwark Council grants the club a 24-hour alcohol licence

2006 Ministry of Sound acquires house music record label Hed Kandi

2010 Club faces threat as Oakmayne reveals its plans for neighbouring Eileen House