February 23, 2010 15:21

Abbey Road Studios declared a listed building by UK Government

Listing ensures they will not be altered without full consideration

Photo Gallery: The Beatles

Abbey Road Studios have been made a Grade II listed building by the UK government.

The news comes after owners EMI confirmed that the iconic recording complex was not for sale, following reports that the label was considering offloading it to help cover its debts.

Speaking after listing the London studio, Culture Minister, Margaret Hodge said Abbey Road had been responsible for "some of the best music in the world", before adding that she had a personal interest in the welfare of the building.

"Whether your tastes are for classical, hard rock or pop music, one of your favourites is more than likely to have recorded at Abbey Road," Hodge said. "My favourite song of all time, 'If I Fell' by The Beatles, was recorded there in 1964, and to have played a part in preserving this world-famous venue is as exciting for me as hearing that song for the first time. Well, almost!"

The Grade II listing status ensures all alterations to the outside of the building must be fully considered, and English Heritage – who suggested to the government that Abbey Road Studios should be listed – welcomed the news.

Both Paul McCartney and Andrew Lloyd Webber gave their support to groups wishing to save the under-threat studios.

The world's greatest music magazine is now available as a digital edition! For exclusive content you won't find on NME.COM, download here on your iPad/iPhone and here on your Kindle Fire or Nook.

Share on Facebook