A LIVE music venue might have to change its name because it clashes with a well-known chain of venues.

The AMG Group, which runs 02 Academy concert venues, asked the firm behind the Durham Academy, in Durham City, to change its name.

The 800-capacity venue, in North Road, which was a cinema before it was converted into the Walkabout Autralian theme pub, is due to start holding events on Monday.

The managing director of owner ULG Durham, Bob Senior, said: “I was going to call it the Durham Academy, but I am going to have to think again.

“I am going to have to negotiate with the people who run the 02 Academy.

“They are worried that people will confuse us with them.”

The venue will host live music, dance and comedy and DJ nights.

Local bands wanting to perform in the venue are asked to email bob.senior @utopianlesiure.com No one was available for comment at the AMG Group.