Crunch time for Southsea strip club application

Almost 70 people have opposed a bid to open a new lap dancing venue at the former Conservative Club site in Albert Road, Southsea.

Portsmouth City Council will next week determine whether a licence can be given to businessman Paul Ojla to open Elegance in the street.

The current site of the strip club, in Granada Road, Southsea, has been closed for several months.

Mr Ojla aims to move the brand to Albert Road.

But he has stressed if his licensing bid is unsuccessful, he will look to reopen the venue in Granada Road.

However, his application has infuriated residents.

Many of them wrote to the council, demanding the authority refused the bid, with some claiming the club could increase crime and put women’s safety at risk.

One objector said: ‘I object strongly to this club which will turn Southsea into an undesirable, sleazy area in which I will feel very unsafe.

‘There is enough rape and sexual abuse already without having these men on the streets seeking sexual satisfaction.’

Another resident said: ‘This sort of venue will just bring more rowdy, drunk men to this area – stag nights and sleazy men where there are families and young children nearby.’

If approved, the venue would open from 9pm to 4am seven days a week. Alcohol would be served from 9pm to 3.30am.

The site would also have to comply with a number of stringent licensing rules, which would include the installation of CCTV and recruitment of trained security guards.

The committee meeting is at 9.30am on Monday at Portsmouth Guildhall.