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Daniel Abrahamovitch, centre, with WKD supporters outside the town hall on Wednesday |
Bar that’s got talent a hit with Sade
Showcase for young artists and performers, but neighbours fear late-night disturbance
POP singer Sade, well-known headteacher Sue Seifert and almost a dozen residents have spoken in favour of a new combined café, bar and art gallery in Stroud Green.
Highbury singer Sade, unable to attend in person an Islington licensing committee meeting at the town hall on Wednesday, praised the bar via a video presentation.
Ms Seifert, stand-in head at Canonbury School, attended the meeting with residents who support the licensing application by WKD bar in Crouch Hill, close to the station.
The bar, run by former pop promoter Daniel Abrahamovitch, officially opens this weekend.
But the committee heard it has already divided the community – between those who fear it will cause late-night nuisance and those who believe it will provide a friendly neighbourhood meeting place.
Labour group leader Councillor Catherine West, who represented objectors unable to attend, was concerned about the effect of late-night loud music and heavy drinking on residents in nearby Japan Crescent
People urinating in front gardens were another worry. She said: “We have an area which is becoming an entertainment hub but there are no public toilets.”
Ms Seifert spoke in support of Mr Abrahamovitch, who has run bars in Camden and Stroud Green.
She said: “He is a very responsible man with a strong commitment to helping young people. He does a lot to support the community.”
Describing his venue, a former kebab shop, Mr Abrahamovitch said there would only be acoustic music. He would be exhibiting art and encouraging talented young people to perform.
He added: “It’s a small, cosy boutique bar. It’s not grand or showy. It’s just a place where locals can relax and have a bite to eat and a drink.
“It’s very much what you have in Europe.”
He was then given permission to switch on a laptop with a video presentation by singer Sade.
She said she had known him for 10 years on a professional level and was “always impressed with how he manages somehow to bring professional performers alongside the youth.
“I just thought that, with the way things are now, how lost young people are, often unable to express themselves or fulfil their potential, I believe it will be a great outlet and a great opportunity for young people in Islington.”
IT firm managing director Valerie Manners, who lives locally, said: “This is not your typical men’s pub. Danny provides a pleasant, calm and relaxed environment where women can go in alone and not feel threatened.”
The committee approved a licence allowing the bar to open until 1.30am weekends and 12.30am weekdays. |
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