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Communities handed new powers to challenge lap dancing venues
Fri 12 Feb 2010
Lap dancing venues will soon be required to apply for a sex establishment licence in order to stay in business.
According to the Home Office, many people do not want a lap dancing club in their area, but feel powerless to do anything about it.
The government has therefore introduced reforms which will come into place in April and enable people to complain on the grounds of lap dancing clubs being inappropriate to the area.
Under the current system, a licensing application can only be rejected if the venue is deemed to be a likely cause of crime or a threat to public safety.
This means that existing lap dancing clubs will have to apply for a sex establishment licence over the next year or face closure.
Equality minister Harriet Harman has welcomed this development, saying that people should not be forced to have a "sleazy" lap dancing venue in their neighbourhood if they do not want it to be there.
The Local Government Association has also supported the reforms, saying it is a "boost to local democracy" that puts power back in the hands of local people.
Robert Botkai, a partner at law firm Winckworth Sherwood, commented: "Clubs should be contacting a licensing solicitor for advice on how to protect their licence.
"They have 12 months from 6 April to do so but should not delay.
"Those wishing to oppose the grant of a licence to an existing or new club should also seek advice to ensure that they have the necessary evidence to succeed at the licence hearing.
"We offer a free consultation for both applicant and objector. Contact me on 020 7593 5004 for further information."
