A new neighborhood group called We Are Gowanus has formed in opposition to a venue called Rock and Roll Playhouse slated to open in a former warehouse at 280 Bond Street. It will offer music classes for kids during the day as well as a late-night performances and a bar for adults in the evenings. Residents were initially under the impression that the spot would be family-oriented and kid-friendly. They then found out that the business owner, Peter Shapiro, operates several large clubs and was planning to apply for a full liquor licence at the site. Here are the details, according to Pardon Me for Asking:

Kids 10 and under would be welcome during the day for classes like “Beatles For Babies” and “Drawing Rock and Roll.” But the main thrust of the new operation is to be a late-night music venue featuring jazz and also possibly other types of music seven days a week. After 8 pm at night, the club will only be open to those 21 and older. According to Shapiro, the venue will feature a full bar. During the week, the last call will be around 1:30 am, 2 am on weekends.

Residents were also upset after the owner told them he didn’t plan to soundproof the building, which backs up to residential properties. They are planning to oppose the business on the grounds that it is not consistant with the residential zoning in the neighborhood. Let’s see how this plays out… UPDATE: Rock and Roll Playhouse contacted us and said, “We are eager to be good neighbors and work with the Carroll Gardens/Gowanus communities to ensure that the RRPH is a unique and valued asset to the families in the neighborhood.”
We Are Gowanus [Main Site]
“Rock and Roll Playhouse” for Kiddies or Adults? [PMFA]
Photo via We Are Gowanus

 


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