WPBC to draw up sexual entertainment policy

It is to be proposed that the Borough Council will consult residents over licensing provisions for Sexual Entertainment Venues in Weymouth & Portland.

Changes to the law now mean that local councils can have more power over the regulation of venues classified as providing sexual entertainment, with the introduction of a Sexual Entertainments Policy. Once drawn up, residents will be able to comment upon the Policy during an 8 week consultation period.

Under the new policy, operators of sexual entertainment venues would need to apply for a new “Sexual Entertainment Licence”, which is separate from the usual Premises License.

Previously a Sex Establishment Licence was not normally required for striptease or lap dancing venues, where the relevant permissions for adult entertainment would have been included on a Premises Licence issued under the Licensing Act 2003.

Cllr Ian James, Brief Holder for Community Safety, said: “Weymouth does not have a high volume of sexual entertainments venues; however I welcome the news that the Council is to have more power over the issue of licenses for such venues. The consultation will also give local people a say over the regulation of lap dancing and similar venues in the Borough.”