ACVs: 'Unprecedented' support for pub facing closure after 2,300 people back nomination

Much-loved live music venue the Owl Sanctuary is facing closure after it was sold to a new owner.

Local pubs protection officer Neil Bower told the Publican’s Morning Advertiser​: "I've never known a pub to have so many people nominate it. We couldn't keep up with it. The current operators have ploughed a lot of time and money in to it and, in the two years they've been there, they've really turned it around. It's a unique venue and bands come from all over the county, country and even the world to play there.

"The council has received the application and now it's a waiting game to see whether they approve it."

On Facebook, Owl Sanctuary licensee Dan Hawcroft said: "To see so much positivity and support is truly humbling. We woke up to messages from all over the world from bands that played here, bands that wanted to play here, other venues and from people who just love the Owl as their local. It means the world to us.

"I have invested a crazy amount of time and money in the venue and now have no clue about my future prospects or security for my family, nor do my friends who work here and have done for two years."

Local Labour MP Clive Lewis has written to Norwich City Council's head of planning urging him to back the application and a petition describing the pub as "a symbol of Norwich's community spirit" has received more than 5,000 signatures.

More than £6,000 has been raised by a local music lover to help support the Owl Sanctuary.

However, new owner Richard Pratt told the Eastern Daily Press ​that the pub's lease had always been due to expire in March and that he "currently had no plans for the property".