Mayor of Hackney Philip Glanville backs Passing Clouds protest

Drumming up support: Saturday’s march in Dalston. Photograph: Alan D Miller

The sound of drumming filled the air and crowds carrying placards thronged the streets of Dalston in support of Passing Clouds, the hippy venue seized by bailiffs earlier this year.

Saturday’s march, which hundreds of people took part in, came as campaigners continue to demand Hackney Council list the venue as an Asset of Community Value (ACV).

Philip Glanville, the newly elected Mayor of Hackney, said he was “really sorry” he could not make the march but was pleased “big numbers” were out.

He added that the council was looking into the potential for granting the venue ACV status.

“Big numbers…” – the protest in full swing. Photograph: Alan D Miller

The brightly coloured exterior of Passing Clouds’ base on Richmond Road was painted a dull grey and the flags and signs that adorned it have been removed by agents acting on behalf of owner Landhold Developments.

The developers had an eviction order upheld by a judge last month.

Supporters of Passing Clouds, which has been a colourful feature of Dalston’s nightlife for a decade, had earlier barricaded themselves in the venue in protest at plans to redevelop the site.