LICENSING AND APPEALS COMMITTEE 19 SEPTEMBER 2011
MINUTE 19
The report revisited the issue of adoption of new powers relating to licensing
of sexual entertainment venues (SEVs).
The Licensing Manager explained that whilst dancing fell under the auspices
of a form of general entertainment licencing, it did not provide for nudity. The
Government had sought to provide an additional set of powers which enabled
licensing authorities to impose specific conditions including physical
separation from the dancer. This could not currently be provided for under
the existing arrangements. The Government had stated that if councils chose
not to adopt the regulations within one year of them coming it force, they must
carry out a consultation. The Council’s previous administration had decided
not to adopt the regulations, but a year had passed since they had come into
force, so a decision now had to be made on whether to adopt them or carry
out a consultation. A consultation could take up considerable Member and
Officer time. The Council was not aware of any venue in North Norfolk which
would require such a licence, but it was important to have measures in place.
Members concurred that it was important to have measures in place as it was
unknown if or when they would be needed. The regulations would give the
Council the ability to apply conditions to venues and provide some safeguards
for the performer.
RECOMMENDED to Full Council to
adopt the relevant new provisions for the regulation of lap dancing and other
sexual entertainment venues.