The Hammersmith Palais, the famous London music venue, is to be demolished to make way for a restaurant and offices.

Despite protests from campaigners attempting to save the historic venue, which opened in 1919, English Heritage raised no objections to the proposals by Parkway Properties and the local council gave the green light to the new development last night (22 January).

Lucy Ivimy, chair of Hammersmith & Fulham Council’s planning committee, said: “English Heritage inspected the site and has confirmed that there is insufficient architectural merit in the building to justify listing it.

“We recognise that some people will have fond memories of the golden era at the Hammersmith Palais and it is true to say it played a huge part in West London’s music scene. Sadly, the golden era for the Palais is long gone.”

The Theatre Trust objected to the application on the grounds that the new facility does not include any facilities for live music – and the council received seven individual letters of objection – but there have been anti-social behaviour concerns associated with the venue and according to the council, the new buildings would provide a “more visually interesting and vibrant street frontage to Shepherd’s Bush Road”.

The Palais – which started off as a jazz hall – has played host to various bands including the Rolling Stones, U2 and the Sex Pistols. The Clash immortalised the venue in a song called “(White Man) In Hammersmith Palais”.