A planning application to demolish Hitchin's Club 85 and replace it with 16 apartments has been withdrawn, but the iconic music venue still looks set to close.

The plans, submitted by the owners of Club 85 back in September last year, proposed to knock down the Whinbush Road site, and build five one-bed and 11 two-bed properties in its place.

In a statement at the time, landlords Jas and Ranjit Lidder described developing Club 85 as the "best choice" ahead of their planned retirement in 2025, but North Herts Council's planning portal is now showing the plans as withdrawn.

The Comet has attempted to reach out to Jas Lidder for comment, but has not received a response.

The Comet: Designs for the now withdrawn plans.Designs for the now withdrawn plans. (Image: BBR Designs)

READ MORE - THE FUTURE OF CLUB 85

Despite the plans being withdrawn and music fans hoping that the venue could be saved, it appears Club 85 is still set to close, with a farewell show scheduled to take place on December 30.

Back in September, manager Bob Mardon said that the venue was "working to establish our options towards finding a positive resolution and even a new location locally".

The 300-capacity venue has played host to the likes Neville Staple from The Specials, and Glenn Matlock, a member of punk rock icons the Sex Pistols, establishing itself a renowned spot for independent, grassroots music.