THE landlords of The Cellar nightclub will 'consider their options' and have not ruled out reviving plans to transform it into retail space.

St Michael's and All Saints' Charities withdrew its application to turn the Cornmarket Street nightclub into more shop space.

But the charity defended its plans and said redeveloping the property would allow it to hand out more money to address problems such as homelessness, domestic abuse, special educational needs, loneliness, refugees and health.

It said after receiving 'strong' views from supporters of the famous venue it was considering its options.

Rupert Sheppard, clerk to the trustees of the charity, said: "Strong representations have been made regarding The Cellar.

"The trustees regularly receive persuasive requests for support from other causes.

"I know that in considering their options, the trustees will take account of the interests of the wider community of which music fans are part.

He added: "In the meantime the trustees have withdrawn their planning application."

The charity had applied to Oxford City Council for permission to redevelop the basement club, off Cornmarket, after Lush, which is in the shop above, moves into the new Westgate centre.

A petition opposing the plan gathered more than 13,600 names as famous names from the world of music and politicians rallied to support the venue.

The charity has been looking to expand its property portfolio in recent years to increase the grants it can award.

In 2015 it handed out more than £380,000 to local charities.