Blackpool's zero lap dancing clubs policy used as licences rejected

Many of Blackpool's lap dancing clubs are located on the resort's promenade

A policy to phase out lap dancing clubs in Blackpool to make the resort more "family friendly" has been used for the first time.

Councillors voted in October to refuse new applications and allow existing licences to expire.

The public protection sub-committee threw out two applications, one for a new venue and another for existing club Eden, which was to be renamed Mystique.

Operators have warned the policy could drive lap dancing underground.

They argue the crackdown on sexual entertainment venues (SEVs) could put workers at "alarmingly high" risk of harm.

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The move leaves three lap dancing clubs licensed to operate in Blackpool - Eden Two, Heaven and Sinless, which are all on the Promenade, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

Only one sex shop will be allowed to trade in the town.

An application for a new SEV licence for Dreams at 11 to 13 Queen Street was refused, along with an application for a new SEV licence for Mystique at 15 to 17 Queen Street, which previously operated as Eden.

Blackpool Council said it had been "working towards a zero limit" and hoped the decision would better reflect its aim to be more family friendly, and show support for the White Ribbon campaign to reduce violence towards women.

Ashley Sayers, whose family has operated Eden Two on the Promenade for 14 years, has previously said that dancers would "be tempted, if not forced to work in places such as hotels for private bachelor parties, where their risk of sexual assault and financial exploitation would be alarmingly high".

The policy will be effective until 2026 when the next review is due.

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