Tougher licensing for lapdancing clubs

From later this year, existing clubs can be classed as "sexual entertainment venues" and have to apply for a new licence or face closure, the Home Office announced yesterday.

Councils in England and Wales will be able to ban clubs from opening near schools or in quiet neighbourhoods.

Even in areas where clubs are allowed, town halls will be able to cap the number.

Current laws put lapdancing clubs in the same category as cafes and bars, meaning they can be stopped from opening only if they attract crime, are a nuisance or endanger the public.

But town halls and residents groups called for greater powers to restrict them in the face of a boom in the industry.

Since 2004, it is estimated the number of lapdancing clubs has doubled to more than 300.

From April 6, clubs will be allowed a transition period of 12 months to gain a new licence or be shut down.

Occasional nude performances in pubs or working men's clubs will not face similar restrictions. Striptease acts are permitted as long as there are fewer than 12 a year in one venue.

Lapdancing club owners say the changes will lead to job losses and less investment in what is a 2.1bn industry.

But Home Office Minister Alan Campbell said: "Many people have told us they don't want a lapdancing club in their neighbourhood and feel that the existing legislation does not adequately take account of their concerns.

"From April, these important reforms will give local authorities the powers they need to respond to the concerns of local people regarding the number and location of lap dancing clubs in their area."

Cllr Chris White, from the Local Government Association, called the announcement "a victory for common sense".