Smack saved: Council intervenes to rescue beloved student nightclub

Plans to demolish Warwick students’ go-to nightclub Smack on Tavistock Street and turn it into student accommodation were rejected by councillors on Tuesday 5 November. 

 The Warwick District Council (WDC) planning committee’s final decision cited concerns about heritage preservation and potential overdevelopment of the area. 

 The proposal aimed to replace the two-storey, 600-capacity nightclub with a five-storey building of 10 student apartments and a total of 48 ensuite bedrooms.  

 The developer argued that the nightclub’s building was “at the end of its life”. 

 The developer argued that the nightclub’s building was “at the end of its life”. 

They proposed a design that would “provide a memory of the building to be demolished alongside historical recording”. 

 The application described the new structure as “a high-quality masonry building” intended to “conserve and enhance the character of Tavistock Street”. 

 Despite these assurances, WDC’s planning and conservation officers recommended that councillors reject the plan.  

  Officers expressed concern that the demolition would cause “substantial harm” to the neighbouring Grade II* listed former coach house. They noted that removing the existing curtilage-listed structure necessary for the new development was “not considered acceptable in principle.” 

 Other objections included worries about the loss of a public entertainment venue, and the lack of necessity for further student accommodation in Leamington Spa.

It would be a shame to lose Smack, […] there are already not many clubs to choose from on a night out. 

– Sara, third-year student

 Sara, a third-year biology student, said: “It would be a shame to lose Smack, considering that there are already not many clubs to choose from on a night out.” 

Supporters of the proposal pointed out potential benefits such as reduced noise and enhanced community safety. 

Elliott, a second-year law student, commented: “Living quite close to Smack has affected my sleep on the days the club is open. I wasn’t thrilled that the proposal to demolish it was rejected.” 

Further concerns were raised over the committee’s rejection of the proposal. 

Ben, a second-year history and politics student, stated: “It is outrageous that, across the country, councils stymie development wherever it happens to crop up.  

“Warwick District Council should rethink its decision to preserve ‘heritage assets’ whilst the local economy flatlines and the housing crisis rages. People need sensible environmental policy, not blocking for the sake of blocking.”