Foundry bar, Old Street, to become Art’Otel – Banksy mural to survive

The Foundry, an iconic East End bar near Old Street, is being replaced by a hotel. What does the loss of the Foundry mean to the East End bar scene? Are you pleased we’re getting more investment – or angry that Hackney Council’s asking the Foundry to leave?

Info: The Foundry is the prominent bar on the corner of Old Street and Great Eastern Street. It’s been a hub for creative talent in the area – notable clichés include the Banksy mural inside, and the fact that Hot Chip formed here over four pints of lager. The Foundry has always posed itself as an artspace – with a bar to pay the rent. It has no hold over the building – hence why bar managers Tracey and Jonathan Moberly are being moved on by the council.
The Foundry will be demolished, and replaced by an 18-storey Park Plaza enterprise. They’re calling it an ‘Art’Otel’.