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The Yard is one of Soho’s most gorgeous venues. Stumble off the dusty, litter-strewn street into an ambiently illuminated bower of Grecian beauty, worthy of Athenian gods! Or at least worthy of some Kylie album artwork.

 


No seriously it’s lovely. It’s got a chilled vibe, and possibly the only beer garden in Soho. It especially comes into its own in the summer. The noon Sunday sun warms the flagstones as vines climb characterful brick walls and glamorous, cosmopolitan clientele sip and chat and show each other purchases from Selfridges.

But, in what’s fast becoming the oldest story in the world, it’s under threat from developers. The words “luxury flats” haven’t actually been said yet, but we can hazard a guess that that’s what’s on the cards. Or worse, Pizza Express.

They’re not going without a fight though! Which hopefully means they won’t be going at all! They’re applying to become a listed building. The Vauxhall Tavern tried this tactic and won, and now they’re doing better than ever. To do this, they need your help in proving their worthiness, so message Historic England on Grindr and ask if they want to go there for a vodka.

We’re kidding, that would probably hinder rather than help (depends how the vodka went really). However what WOULD help, is sharing information and memories of The Yard’s early days. This helps cement its status as a pillar of the community, and a valued, essential space.

The Yard’s owner Andy Jones says:

“Any information you have about The Yard’s early days is so vital to helping us get this building listing and preserved for future generations to enjoy.’”

“Getting the Listing Application granted would mark and celebrate 57 Rupert Street’s, architectural and historic interest. Special care and consideration would therefore be brought to the planning system so that its future is protected.”

Basically, the most vital thing is to object to the application. You can do this by emailing centralplanningteam@westminster.gov.uk and referencing the application ref 11/11856/FULL and explaining why The Yard is important to you, or tweeting with the hashtag #SaveTheYard.

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