Overview
When the Hopetoun Hotel closed its doors back in 2009 — due to reported excessive fines and council requests — the people of Sydney had no idea that it would be the start of a dark period for live music venues. Since then, the Surry Hills hotel has been sitting boarded up on the corner of Bourke and Fitzroy Streets. But exciting reports and social media whispers suggest that the Hoey has been sold — and to a proprietor who will support live music, no less.
Yesterday The Brag reported that Adrian Bull of Blind Records had purchased the site. This appears to be confirmed by his comments on a Facebook post discussing the sale.
The Hopetoun Hotel closed in 2009 amid live music fan protests and an unsuccessful online campaign. Up until then, the venue was a vital part of the local music scene, and had helped launch the careers of several musicians, including Sarah Blasko.
Looks like she'll live! And, better yet, the Hopetoun is located outside of the lockout zone. We're looking to confirm these reports with the new owner and will update this story when we do.
Via The Brag. Image: Wikimedia Commons.