Fans from all over the world have joined forces to try and save U2's Hanover Quay studio from the developers.

"It's clear that the authorities have greatly underestimated the cultural importance of these studios to music fans across the globe," says the man behind www.petitiononline.com/savehs, Frank Kennedy. "From Brazil, Argentina to Australia and New Zealand and across America and Europe, it's clear the fans want these studios to remain."

The reaction of Ingrid Rodriguez is typical: "Historical places need preservation. When I visit Ireland this was a landmark I was planning to visit. It's an interest for any fan and follower of U2. Now, I ask this…what if Memphis decided to tear down Sun Studios?"