Since Sept. 17, rumors have swirled through the Triangle that the area's premiere rock venue may move to Durham.
Although the owner of Carrboro's Cat's Cradle, Frank Heath, has refuted these rumors, he doesn't deny that changes are in store for the Cradle.
"It can get a bit frustrating knowing that our current spot really is where this venue needs to stay, while also knowing that we could benefit from a larger space," Heath wrote in an e-mail to The (Raleigh) News & Observer.
The rumor was first reported in The N&O, which quoted developer Laura Van Sant of 300 East Main as saying that delays in a renovation project might induce Heath to move the club, which has moved twice in its lifetime.
Scientific Properties, Inc.-a Durham company that owns Golden Belt, an arts area with galleries, studios and retail space near downtown-was mentioned as a possible candidate for a relocated Cradle.
Allison Polish, director of marketing for Scientific Properties, confirmed the company plans to open a venue at Golden Belt.
"We are in discussion with some individuals," she said. "We are very ready, we're just waiting to sign a lease."
She would not disclose with whom the company is negotating.
The Cradle is currently anticipating a major renovation by 300 East Main. The project, unveiled to the public in 2004, has been awaiting approval from the city for three years.
The plan entails building up the entire complex that currently houses the club. The Cradle would almost double its capacity to 1,200.
"The plan is to put him on two levels and then open up a mezzanine for larger shows but close it off for smaller ones so he could not have this cavernous space." Van Sant said.
She added that they hope for the first building to open in 2010. The plan is expected to be approved Sept. 30 by the Carrboro Board of Aldermen.
Heath did not respond to requests for comment.
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