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Islington lap dancing licence bid draws criticism
Thu 18 Feb 2010
Lap dancing venue operator For Your Eyes Only is facing opposition to its plans to open a new establishment in Islington, London.
The company has applied for permission to set up a lap dancing club near Hatton Garden in Clerkenwell, the established centre of London's jewellery industry.
Both residents and local businesses are concerned that the name and reputation of the area could be tarnished if the licensing application is accepted.
The Reverend Dr Michael Lloyd, vicar of St Andrew Holborn, also warned that this could become a "magnet" for the sex market if the plans are approved.
Speaking to the Islington Gazette, he added that he believes adult entertainment of this kind is degrading to women.
As of April 2010, communities will be able to oppose lap dancing licence applications on the grounds that such a club is inappropriate to their area.
Wrexham MP Ian Lucas is among those to welcome the change in the law, as it will give people a "greater say" in what kinds of establishment people want to have near their homes.
He said that in the past, too many lap dancing clubs in Britain have been opened despite strong objections from local people.
Robert Botkai, a partner at Winckworth Sherwood Solicitors, commented: "Expect more news stories on lap dancing club applications, particularly over the next few weeks as new clubs get their applications in before the law changes in April.
"Contact me if you wish to apply for a lap dancing licence or object to a licence in your area."
