Lewisham Council has explained why it has evicted a popular bar in Catford after the decision sparked an emotional response on social media.

Little Nan’s Bar in the Broadway Theatre was told on July 18 that a two year break clause would be invoked.

Since the news broke, over 2,500 people have signed an online petition to prevent the bar shutting down.

Link to petition here

However, despite the campaign, Lewisham Council has now outlined reasons for its decision.

Councillor Brenda Dacres said: “Unfortunately, the venue has proven to be unsuitable for their operational needs as a business and has resulted in the loss of full access to the theatre space. The arrangements have also negatively impacted the theatre's operations.

“Ultimately, staying at the venue is no longer an option based on the detrimental impact they have had on the running of theatre productions, as well as significant concerns about access, which has also been brought to our attention by theatre patrons.

“We have given Little Nan’s as much notice as possible so that they are able to find another venue in the local area.”

Little Nan’s Bar recently applied for a late license to stay open until 3am to run jazz nights but the council said this led to “noise transference” to other parts of the building.

The council also said the only lift in the theatre was in the bar which has “often been obstructed”.

Since the petition, owner of the bar Tristan Scutt said he had “no idea how loved they were” after hundreds of supportive messages.

He added: “The reason why the council chose us for this space is because Little Nan's is part of the community, we are all from Lewisham. We love you Catford and we don't want to leave.”

READ MORE - More than 1000 people sign petition to stop Little Nan's Bar being evicted from theatre

Sally Christopher, who started the petition, said Little Nan’s Bar was “integral” to the development of Catford.

She described the eviction as a “devastating loss” and asked Lewisham Council to consider customer opinions.

According to the council, Little Nan’s Bar was also poorly ventilated and they added that the theatre was forced to bring in extra front of house staff on event nights - which increased costs.

Little Nan's opened in Catford in February 2017.