Cheltenham Borough Council has announced tougher regulations on strip club licenses in response to significant local opposition to such venues. The updated sexual entertainment venue (SEV) policy, originally established in 2020, has been revised to ensure the town balances public safety with lawful entertainment provisions.
The revisions define a designated permitted area where there is no restriction on the number of licensed SEVs, reflecting a pragmatic approach rather than a moral judgement. Council leader Rowena Hay (LD, Oakley) emphasized during the June 22 council meeting that licensing SEVs is a complex issue. The council prefers licensing and regulating these venues over allowing them to exploit the infrequency exemption, which often results in unregulated operations and increased public safety risks.
Cllr Hay noted, “There is a high probability that SEVs will continue to operate unlicensed without regulation, heightening safety concerns. It remains the local authority’s responsibility to find a balanced solution.”
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Cllr Victoria Atherstone (LD, St Peter’s) highlighted that Cheltenham’s popular festivals attract SEV operators. She explained that while the council could adopt a zero-tolerance approach to SEVs, such venues would then operate without licensing, potentially leading to unchecked risks. She expressed full support for the policy changes, calling it “the strongest, safest policy we could put forward at this time.”
Public consultation revealed strong opposition to SEVs, with many residents advocating for no venues in the town. Concerns were raised over how SEVs might harm Cheltenham’s reputation as a cultural and family-friendly destination. In response, the council tightened criteria for approving new licenses, particularly regarding locations near sensitive properties or areas, incorporating considerations of equality, community impact, and compatibility with existing licensing permissions.
Each application will be assessed on a case-by-case basis, factoring in proximity to sensitive premises, neighboring licensed venues, existing planning policies, past complaints, and potential changes to operating hours of nearby businesses.
By adopting these enhanced regulations, Cheltenham Borough Council aims to manage SEV operations responsibly, safeguarding public welfare while respecting legal frameworks.