A bid for a lap dancing club in Carlisle is set to be decided by councillors next week.
Arches Gentleman’s Club would offer lap dancing and pole dancing, as well as cabaret evenings, in the former Below venue on Botchergate.
Arch Bar Ltd has applied for a sexual venue entertainment licence from Cumberland Council.
Members of the authority’s regulatory sub-committee will meet next Wednesday to discuss the application.
Arch Bar Ltd said it would be a female-run strip club and added it would be “dedicated to providing a safe, supportive, and empowering environment for women to work and express themselves”.
The application said a lap dance would cost £20 for three minutes.
Kayleigh McCrone, of Arch Bar Ltd, said: “We are excited to share that we have the full support of keen dancers who are eager to start working with us, further demonstrating our commitment to establishing a thriving community within the club.
“To ensure transparency and mutual understanding, all dancers will receive contracts that outline their terms and conditions as well as their rights.
“These contracts will be provided every quarter, allowing dancers to stay informed about their financial standing and any changes to their agreements.
“This regular communication aims to foster a supportive environment where dancers feel secure and valued in their roles.”
Mrs McCrone, who has a background in the nightlife industry, added that the establishment would feature well lit areas, CCTV in lap dancing booths and regular safety drills would be carried out.
Her letter said that the venue was discreet, with a small entrance, which would help the club maintain a low profile.
She has not held a sexual entertainment venue licence before, but is presently the premises licence holder for the venue.
Arch Bar Ltd has asked that the club opens from 10am to 4.30am.
A report to councillors said the area was known for its vibrant nightlife and contained various drinking establishments, which have a late closing time.
Cumbria police has not objected to the proposal but the authority has received six objections from members of the public.
Karl Gray said: “Carlisle’s city centre serves as a hub for families, students, and visitors, and the establishment of a sexual entertainment venue in such a visible and central area would, in my view, be entirely inappropriate.
“It risks undermining the reputation and character of the city centre, particularly as the council continues efforts to promote Carlisle as a safe, welcoming, and family-friendly destination.
“Such a venue may also have a negative impact on neighbouring businesses and could deter visitors, particularly families and those seeking a positive evening economy.
“Additionally, concerns around public safety, antisocial behaviour, and the potential exploitation of individuals within the adult entertainment industry must be carefully considered.”
Jahangir Ali also objected and said: “As a person of faith, I find such an establishment inappropriate, particularly given its location on a main road regularly used by families and children walking to and from school.
“This area is known for its historical charm and beautiful countryside, attracting many visitors and tourists each year. A venue of this nature would not reflect well on our city’s image or the values of our community.
“I strongly urge the council to reconsider this proposal in favour of developments that uphold the character and integrity of the area.”
Sam Greig said there was a lap dancing club, in nearby English Gate Plaza and added: “The premises is located approximately 160 metres to the north of 8 English Gate Plaza.
“Whilst the council’s Sex Establishment Licensing Policy does not identify thresholds for the siting of SEVs within specific localities in the city, the granting of the proposed SEV license would represent a 100 per cent increase in SEVs in a concentrated geographical area.
“Whilst the public’s desire to access the existing SEVs is respected, it is my view that such a marked rise in SEVs in a very small geographical area should be regarded by the council as excessive for one given locality.”
Chris Kinsella added: “Firstly, its proximity to the railway station. It will only be a couple of 100 feet from the entrance. I didn’t think it’s one of the first things a visitor to the city should see. Especially as there is a proposed facelift to this area.
“It’s beside the new university complex, which has seen a huge amount spent on improvements. It doesn’t match the aspirations of these developments.
“Many in the city have seen a marked decline on Botchergate and what it offers residents, and its increasingly unsafe feeling, particularly after dark, and especially for elderly, the vulnerable and females on their own. I’m certain this type of venue will bring about further decline and put many visitors off.”
The report said that some of the objections do not relate to licensing issues.
When the committee meets on Wednesday, it can:
- Issue the licence, with the standard conditions
- Issue the licence, with conditions that have been set by committee
- Issue the licence without the standard conditions
- Refuse the application – but must give reasons why the application has been refused
