PLANS for new flats to be built close to a popular Reading nightclub will be "a certain death of the venue", according to campaigners.

Almost 1,700 people have signed a petition launched days ago to stop homes being build close to "essential" club The Face Bar.

However, plans have been submitted for flats to be built "within metres" of the venue, in Ambrose Place.

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Fans of the The Face Bar launched a petition on Friday (July 17) calling for plans to be changed.

This morning (July 19), there were 1,692 signatures.

The petition reads: "For over 30 years there has been a music venue on this plot of land.

"The Face Bar is ESSENTIAL for Reading's music scene!! It's the last we have, and it must be respected and preserved.

"The current plans of planning app 200752 - seven one bedroom flats within meters of the main dancefloor will be a certain death of the venue.

"Reading doesn't need anymore flats... what it needs is its culture respected."

Comments on the petition show how passionately opposed some are the the plans.

One said: "Absolutely ridiculous to consider putting flats next to an existing live music venue.

"If this goes ahead the developers have to be the ones picking up the bill for the necessary sound proofing etc."

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Another commented: "The Face Bar becomes the core of the nightlife experience for each new generation that wants something beyond a pub or a cheese-night.

"Lately it has had a revival and pulls in great crowds from outside town and even out of the country with its indoor festivals.

"Please don't swamp with it with overpriced London commuter hutches.

"The economic and cultural benefit of this venue is worth far more in the long run", while one said: "The Face Bar is a fantastic social and cultural place for Reading and its underground music scene.

"Bands need places to play, and the jobs of crew members, sound engineers, lighting engineers, bar staff and the owners themselves are at risk of going."

To view or sign the petition, click here.