More than 1,500 people have signed a petition in a bid to save a much-loved Lewisham pub and live music venue from possible closure.

If plans are given the go ahead by Lewisham Council, two old warehouse buildings will be converted to provide eight flats directly overlooking the Fox and Firkin's garden.

Manager Didier Autard told News Shopper that the 300-capacity venue on Lewisham High Street - offering club nights until 4am on weekends plus live music - may slowly lose business if the flats are built, as he anticipates a "deluge of complaints as soon as people move in."

Mr Autard said: "We will lose the smoking area as we will have to close the garden early so the crowd will have to smoke in the street.

"The Fox wasn't built with any soundproofing from the stage - the noise can be heard in the garden.

"It's impossible to keep total silence with such a neighbouring proximity."

News Shopper:

Mr Autard isn't the only one who feels passionate about the venue, which has been open for 30 years, is one of Lewisham's only live music venues and has hosted the likes of King Krule and Dreadzone. Fans have also been posting their messages of support across social media.

One supporter, May Ellen, wrote: "The Fox and Firkin has been the influential jewel in south London's live music scene for several decades now.

"Its loss would be a tragedy for music not just locally, but nationally too."

However, an architect of Wren Mews - the company behind the developments, Malachy McAleer, said that claims the development could threaten the venue's livelihood are unfounded.

He said: "If they look at the design and detail that scenario would not arise.

"The flats would not be built that close to the venue's garden and the windows we use are built to withstand a certain amount of decibels."

When asked if the venue could close due to the development, Mr McAleer replied: "Absolutely not."

Visit change.org to sign the petition.