Squatters occupy Soho bar where Adele made UK debut

 
Occupied: the 12 Bar Club in Soho's 'Tin Pan Alley' (Picture: Google Streetview)
Robin de Peyer26 January 2015

Squatters have occupied one of London's most famous live music venues after it was closed down for redevelopment.

The activists moved into the 12 Bar in the heart of Soho, where artists including Adele and KT Tunstall made their UK debuts.

The group, who are calling themselves 'Bohemians 4 Soho', say they are protesting over "social cleansing" in the area.

Consolidated Developments, which owns the Grade II-listed building in Denmark Street, is thought to be seeking to evict the squatters after they moved in last week.

One of the group told the Guardian: "We have joined forces to protest about social cleansing and the actions of corporate developers who want to change the face of Soho.

"We are a collective of artists, activists and campaigners who are willing to become cultural heritage wardens for the area."

It is understood that Consolidated Developments has applied to Central London County Court for an interim possession order against members of the group. The case is due to be held on Wednesday.

The bar is in Soho's 'Tin Pan Alley', known for hosting concerts from bands including the Rolling Stones and Black Sabbath, as well as being a popular hangout for music legends including Jimi Hendrix.

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