Sex establishments consultation launched
Published 13 January 2011
Proposals to ban sex establishments near schools, churches and homes are one step closer.
Residents are being asked for their views on how sex establishments in the borough should be licensed, after the go ahead was given to consult publicly on a new policy.
A draft sex establishments licensing policy was ratified by the licensing committee on 6 January for the purpose of public consultation.
The draft policy proposes that applications will not normally be granted where the premises are located near residential accommodation, places of worship, schools, and parks.
Last October Southwark Council adopted new national licensing provisions which, when they come into force in April of this year, will give the authority greater controls over the licensing of lap dancing clubs and similar establishments.
They will also give the community more say in whether a local area is appropriate for any form of sex establishment, as well as allowing for refusal of an application on the grounds of the character of the local area.
Have your say
Community councils and other groups are now being asked for their views on the draft policy, which will affect all future applications for sex establishments, including sex shops, sex cinemas, and sexual entertainment venues.
The public can also have their say by obtaining a consultation pack at their local community council meeting; or by completing an online form.
For details of the meetings and to access the online consultation go to the licensing consultations page.
The consultation ends on 4 March 2011.
