Women's group opposes Inverness club's lap dance bid

A Highland nightclub has sought permission to stage lap dancing.

The bid by Hush in Inverness has been opposed by Highland Violence Against Women Strategy Group.

It has raised concerns about the exploitation of women and claimed the activity could increase crime and disorder in the city.

A report to Highland Licensing Board said the nightclub has a trouble-free operating history and a high standard of compliance with licensing rules.

Board members will be asked to consider Hush's application next Tuesday.

Vulnerable women

Permissions for the holding of adult entertainment have been granted in the past to nine other venues in the Highlands. These have included one-off events.

The Highland Violence Against Women Strategy Group includes representatives from the police, NHS Highland, Highland Council, Women's Aid and Rape and Abuse Line.

The group said the move would put vulnerable women at greater risk of abuse.

In a report to next week's meeting, the clerk to the board said Hush's application was backed by owners of lap dancing clubs in Aberdeen.

The report said the nightclub was run to a high standard.

'An unknown'

If its application is approved, it would have to meet strict licensing rules on the managing of lap dancing performers and their clientele.

Tony Cochrane, who runs Private Eyes lap dancing club in Aberdeen, said he was working with the owners of Hush on the proposed new business.

He said he understood and respected the views of the Highland Violence Against Women Strategy Group.

Mr Cochrane added: "I think this is something of a bit of an unknown for them.

"We have been in Aberdeen for 15 years and in Fife and Dundee and have not had a single incident involving the things they are concerned about."

He said it had not been decided at this stage how often lap dancing would be held if permission was granted.