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The future of London's Ministry Of Sound club has been saved, despite mayor Boris Johnson giving the go-ahead to the building of a nearby tower block that once threatened closure. 

The plan to build a residential tower block 10 metres from the Elephant & Castle club was announced by developers in 2009, which once looked like it would prove fatal to the club's license. Southwark Council initially rejected Ministry of Sound's appeal against the works unanimously.

Now, Music Week reports that in a council hearing yesterday (Thursday 19 December, 2013) the club and the building developers came to a legal agreement that addressed noise concerns, enabling the club to stay open. 

Mayor of London Boris Johnson said that he was delighted that the build would go ahead while the club's future was secure, referring to the Ministry Of Sound as a "great London cultural landmark".  

"This scheme will deliver much-needed housing in Elephant & Castle while ensuring that the Ministry of Sound, one of London's leading cultural and musical icons, can continue to thrive for years to come," said Johnson.

"The Ministry of Sound makes a huge contribution to the area's thriving night time economy. We want the club to be at the heart of our plans to transform the area into a thriving town centre which is attractive to live, work and play, particularly for young people and students."

He added: "I have fully considered the concerns raised by the club, and having visited the site myself believe that, on balance, the amendments to the original plans should allow residents of the new development to coexist with visitors to the club."