Ministry of Sound will not have to close, it has emerged.

The venerable club in London's Elephant & Castle was being threatened with closure after property developer Oakmayne proposed a residential development opposite the venue.

It now seems that Southwark Council has rejected the developer's planning permission application, effectively meaning that the club is safe.

Read an update on Twitter: “@ministryofsound: Southwark council planning committee rejected developer plans tonight - thank you SO much for all your support! :)”

Thousands signed a petition in response to the threat of closure, with the drama coming as the club was celebrating its 20th year in the clubbing business.