OXFORD'S most controversial planning application, which had more than 1,500 public comments from as far away as Hollywood, has been withdrawn after months of campaigning. 

Musicians and stand-up comedians from Oxford, the county and beyond, pleaded with the council to oppose plans which would see the closure of the city centre’s last real gig venue.

Owners of The Wheatsheaf, which is just off High Street, wanted to close its first-floor concert venue for good and convert it into nine student flats, a shared kitchen area, and common areas.

But in an unexpected change of heart today, those plans have now been withdrawn. 

It is understood the plans were withdrawn before the council refused it.

Unlike other places where music is played in Oxford, The Wheatsheaf has been managed as a dedicated music venue for the past 20 years playing host to many of the city’s most famous bands including Supergrass and Foals – who played their first show there.

A whopping 1,571 people opposed the idea of changing it, with the application attracting a record number of online comments on the city council’s planning site.

Most people commented on the loss of community facility, harm to the local area and quality of the acommodation. 

One fan, Christopher Boyle, said: “The Wheatsheaf is one of few remaining music venues in the city and has launched several bands of national and international significance. Where will the next generation of bands perform?”

Commenting from Hollywood, Los Angels, comedian Chris Turner said: “I performed there over 100 times and were it not for my time spent on that stage, I doubt I would have pursed a career in the areas that have provided my livelihood for the last 10 years.”

Musician Lawrence Beck said: “Having already got rid of The Cellar, my favourite ever venue as a touring musician, allowing The Wheatsheaf to go as a music venue could be the final nail in the coffin for grassroots music in Oxford.”

The Cellar, in Frewin Court, was closed despite a campaign to save it backed by hundreds of musicians.

The next-door Purple Turtle venue has also gone.

The Wheatsheaf is one of the last remaining music venues in the city, along with The Library in Cowley Road, Port Mahon in St Clement’s, and bigger venues like the O2 Academy, Jericho Tavern and The Bullingdon – all out of the city centre.

Kristy Brodie said: “I’m from Australia, I have so many great memories seeing some amazing, talented artists perform at The Wheatsheaf. I would love to take my son here someday.”

Molly Harvey said: “It is where my friends have performed at the beginning of their careers and where people can feel comfortable in themselves. The city is at risk of not having any real local culture or music left within it. We do not need more student accommodation in the city.”

Musician Amy Grimes, writing from America, said: “I performed on this stage for years and have since gone on to perform across the USA. Were it not for this venue I would not be doing what I do today and I would not be who I am.”

Go to oxford.gov.uk using planning application reference number 21/00345/FUL