A world-famous London nightclub has written to the UK Communities Secretary asking him to stop a Manx company demolishing a nearby office block.

Oakmayne Properties, based in Ramsey, is planning to build apartments and offices near the Ministry of Sound in Southwark in Southeast London.

It’s started demolishing the building as it awaits a decision from Mayor of London Boris Johnson over plans to build a new 22-storey block of flats and offices.

But the club has now asked Eric Pickles to prevent the demolition, saying noise would disturb nearby residents if the building was removed.

The move is the latest round in a battle between the club and the developers over the site.

The Ministry of Sound says it might be forced to close in the face of residents’ complaints about noise if the development went ahead.

However, Oakmayne says having the club nearby would be a unique selling point for those thinking of moving in.

London Mayor Boris Johnson is expected to make a final decision on the redevelopment shortly, after holding a public hearing in March following Southwark Council granting planning approval.