Families given power to oppose new lap dancing clubs

Families opposing planning applications for lap dancing clubs in their area will soon have greater powers to challenge them.

Residents wishing to oppose new clubs will have more clout behind their objections on the basis that the new club will be inappropriate for their local neighbourhood.

From 6 April 2010, local authorities will be able to require all lap dancing clubs in their area, including ones already in operation, to have to apply for a sex establishment licence in order to continue operating legally.

Minister for Women and Equality, Harriet Harman said: “If people don’t want to have a sleazy lap dancing club in their neighbourhood, they shouldn’t be forced to have one, which is why we’re changing the law so local people can object and say ‘we don’t want this’ in our area because it’s a sex establishment.”