In a monumental win for Adelaide’s vibrant music scene, the State Government’s legislation that guarantees the future of the beloved Crown and Anchor Hotel has been passed by Parliament, ushering in a new era of protection for this iconic live music venue and others across the City of Adelaide.
This significant legislative move follows successful negotiations between the Government, the developer, and the passionate members of the Save the Cranker campaign. Just in time for the historic counter-cultural institution’s 171st birthday, this past weekend.
Premier of South Australia, Peter Malinauskas, hailed the outcome as a testament to collaborative problem-solving.
“This is a significant day for lovers of live music in Adelaide,” Malinauskas said.
“It demonstrates what can be achieved when government, the private sector, the community, and Parliament work together in a spirit of goodwill and compromise.”
The agreement marks a thrilling victory for the community, ensuring that the Crown and Anchor Hotel, affectionately known as “The Cranker”, will remain a cornerstone of Adelaide’s live music scene.
Patrick Maher of the Save the Cranker board echoed the sentiment, calling it a win for all fans of the venue.
“This is a fantastic result for everyone who loves the Cranker. The Parliament’s cooperation has ensured that this iconic venue will continue to thrive,” he said.
Under the new legislation, the Crown and Anchor Hotel is granted robust protections. It will remain intact, preserving its cherished role as a hotel and live music venue.
The legislation prevents demolition of the building or construction that would overshadow its historic façade. Instead, the developer is now permitted to build a striking 29-storey student accommodation complex on an adjoining site. This development will proceed with a commitment to minimize disruption and respect the venue’s legacy.
The developer will be allowed to partially demolish and restore the pub’s live music room to enhance its acoustic qualities, ensuring that future performances can continue to resonate beautifully.
While the Crown and Anchor will experience a temporary closure during construction, the law stipulates that this will not exceed two years. The current operator will also have the first opportunity to return and resume operations once the works are completed.
Member for Adelaide, Lucy Hood, expressed her pride in securing such a positive result.
“This outcome ensures the Crown and Anchor’s future for current and future generations. I’m proud to be part of a Government that has delivered a solution that honors both live music and heritage,” she said.
The new legislation extends beyond the Crown and Anchor Hotel, amending planning laws to safeguard other significant live music pubs in Adelaide.
New housing developments adjacent to these venues will now be required to incorporate noise attenuation and acoustic treatments, balancing residential comfort with the continued vibrancy of our local music scene.
This landmark legislation not only preserves a key piece of Adelaide’s cultural fabric but also sets a precedent for how we can balance development with the preservation of our cherished community spaces. Moving forward, the Crown and Anchor Hotel will continue to be a vibrant hub for live music, celebrating the rich musical heritage of Adelaide while adapting to the evolving cityscape.
Greens MLC Rob Simms celebrated the outcome as a victory for community advocacy.
“Today’s result shows the power of people coming together,” he said.
“We’re pleased to see the Cranker receive the same protections as state heritage sites, preventing it from facing neglect and potential demolition.”
The future looks bright for Adelaide’s live music scene, thanks to the collective efforts of the Government, community advocates, and all those who value the unique character and cultural contributions of local venues.
Here’s to many more nights of unforgettable music at the Crown and Anchor Hotel!
Crown and Anchor Hotel
Where: 196 Grenfell St, Adelaide SA 5000
When: Monday-Saturday 12 pm–3 am
Sunday 2 pm–3 am
Facebook: thecrankerhotel
Save the Cranker Campign Website: Click here
More News
