Exotic dancers will once again face a fight for their right to strip as the city’s only lap dancing club comes back under the spotlight.

Just six months have passed since the Platinum Lounge won their lengthy battle to continue acting as a ‘gentleman’s club’ after Cheshire West and Chester renewed their licence.

But now the future of the controversial club, based on the city’s historic Rows, once again hangs in the balance as their sex establishment venue (SEV) licence comes under review.

Currently the Bridge Street Rows venue needs to have its SEV renewed by CWaC on a six monthly basis in order to continue providing lap dancing, pole dancing and full nudity on its premises.

Opponents of the club, which has divided the city since it opened over a decade ago, have written to residents calling on them to attend the licencing committee hearing on March 24 to voice their opposition.

In a letter, White Friars Residents’ Association objects to the club saying it:

  • Should not exist on the historic Rows, which are the ‘crown jewels’ of Chester and are the biggest pull for tourists to the city;
  • Is in an area which is becoming increasingly residential;
  • Is too near to the Dewa Roman Experience, which is frequented by children, and restaurants which have children's menus
  • Is too close to places of worship, contrary to the council’s own SEV policy.

The club has faced a lengthy battle to keep operating as a sex establishment on the historic landmark ever since CWaC failed to renew their licence two years ago - a decision which was later overturned by a High Court judge.

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Speaking about the renewal application, scheduled to go before the licencing committee on March 24, city centre ward councillor Sam Dixon said: "We will be asking the council again to apply its own policy.

"It is very clear it shouldn't go there [on the Rows]. There must be other places. There are parts of the city centre were people do not live."

She added: "The project to bring the Rows back to life is still going on, it is still an ambition."

The Chronicle contacted owner of the Platinum Lounge Nigel Woodhouse but had not yet received a reply.