RESIDENTS could have much wider grounds to object to lap dancing and pole dancing clubs in Plymouth if councillors give a new licensing policy the go-ahead this month.

Plymouth City Council's cabinet members are being asked to approve a new policy for licensing sex establishments in the city.

The new policy has been developed to reflect changes in legislation which mean venues such as lap dancing and pole dancing clubs are now classed as 'sex establishments' and need a Sex Establishment Licence to operate, like sex shops and sex cinemas.

Lap dancing and pole dancing clubs previously only needed a licence to cover the sale of alcohol, playing music and dancing.

This means they have been able to operate in much the same way as a café or restaurant and residents have had limited grounds on which to object.

Under the new legislation, however, residents are able to object to licence applications on much wider grounds – for example, if they feel a club is not in keeping with the character of the local area or is too close to a school or church.

The policy – which has been out for public consultation – sets out how the Council will decide all Sex Establishment Licence applications, with guidance for applicants and residents.

It covers issues such as hours of opening, health and safety requirements, fees and limits on the number of establishments in one area.

Councillor Mike Leaves, cabinet member for community services (street scene, waste and sustainability), said: "We wanted to get as wide a range of views as possible in developing this new policy so that everyone had a say in how applications are considered.

"As well as the wider public, we have consulted with residents' groups and associations, businesses, licensed premises, faith groups, councillors and other interested parties."

If approved by cabinet, the policy will go to full council on January 30 before being formally adopted on March 5.

The policy will be available to view on the city council's website as part of the cabinet report for Tuesday January 17.

To view the document visit www.plymouth.gov.uk/modgov.

For further information about this and other licensing matters call Plymouth City Council's licensing department on 01752 304141.

Alternatively email licensing@plymouth.gov.uk.