An Interview with the Electric Ballroom's Kate Fuller about it's uncertain future in the face of plans from London Underground.

Ed: Hi Kate. We've heard that The Electric Ballroom is under threat from London Underground. What's the story?
Kate : London Underground's planning application has been submitted and the Electric Ballroom and Camden Market and other representatives who have interests in the site have been through a lengthy public enquiry that started in February and finished in June 2004.

E : How long has the threat been hanging over you?
K : We first got mention of them taking over our property in 1998.

E : What exactly is London Underground proposing?
K : London undergrounds plans are to demolish The Electric Ballroom, Camden Market and other buildings occupying a triangle of land between Camden High street, Kentish Town road and Buck street. They are proposing to make way for a £100 million (if not more) project, that consists of a high rise office building, housing and chain retail outlets like bond street station.

E : Won't their plans completely change the face of Camden?
K : Camden Town is one of the world's greatest rock n roll locations. London underground proposals will not only destroy the Ballroom, but also the unique character of Camden Town.

E : Is this the "inevitable march of progress"?
K : The Electric Ballroom is not saying that the tube station does not need to be improved but I feel the scale and size of the scheme is inappropriate for its setting.
The development is inappropriate for a conservation area as it neither preserves, nor enhances the area. Plus another key point it will disrupt Camden for 12 years. Who will want to come to Camden to see the main area disrupted.

E : What have you been able to do to defend The Ballroom?
K : We have been through a public enquiry which cost the Ballroom a considerable amount of money. We are now coming out of that and working hard to make people aware of the great history that is attached to the venue.

E : When will you find out what's going to happen?
K : We have no idea when we will find out what's happening with the Ballroom they say now the end of summer maybe December. The planning application is with the deputy prime minister to date as far as I know!

E : Are we likely to see the Ballroom close its doors soon?
K : Hopefully not! We are determined to keep the Ballroom alive. We have many great supporters, musicians who have played here throughout the years.

E : What can people do to help the Electric Ballroom?
K : Please send letters to:
THE DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER'S OFFICE
26 Whitehall
London
SW1A 2WH