Live music looks set to make a comeback in London’s Tin Pan Alley after plans for an intimate gig venue in the area were given the go ahead.

Designed by architects Orms, the approved 280-person space joins a larger 800-capacity venue that has already received planning permission. Both form part of the wider St Giles Circus development and will bring live music back to an area that lost the legendary Astoria in 2009 and the 12 Bar Club just last year.

‘I certainly believe that with its central London location and transport connections that St Giles Circus will quickly become a live music destination but also a catalyst for the rest of the West End to raise its game once again,’ said John McRae, director of Orms.

The planning permission coincides with news that the former home and studio of the Sex Pistols – in a 17th-century townhouse on Denmark Street – has been awarded a Grade II* listing.

‘Venues are attracting a new audience and our attitude towards them needs to change,’ he added.

‘The onus has been to create an infrastructure that is of very high quality and flexible enough to attract the best and most diverse uses to the site. This in turn will help attract the best talent to the venues and create memories for future generations.’

St Giles Circus, which is expected to be ready in 2018, will also have gallery spaces, offices, bars, restaurants and housing.