A proposed new name for a Leeds lap dancing club could inflict “moral or psychological harm” on children, licensing officials claim.
Owners of the Black Diamond club, on New Briggate in the city centre, have applied to Leeds City Council to double the size of the premises, from two floors to four.
They also want to rename it Tantric Blue.
Concerns have already been raised by police and health and safety officials that a new bigger club would increase crime and antisocial behaviour in the area and cause extra nuisance to neighbours.
But the council’s own licensing department has now criticised the application – because the suggested new name would undermine the requirement to protect children from harm.
In a letter of objection, the department said: “Whilst ‘Tantric’ is linked to spiritualism and certain religious practices, for the purpose of a lap dancing venue it takes on another interpretation and associates the premises with sexual practice.”
It added: “The licensing authority is of the opinion that the name of the premises has the potential to cause moral and/or psychological harm to children as well as offence and embarrassment to parents when visiting the city with children.”
The objection goes as far as to say that the new name could breach the conditions of the club’s licence by being “sexually explicit or suggestive” and could therefore warrant a fine of up to £20,000.
The application comes at a time when the council is considering reducing the number of lap dancing clubs in Leeds from seven to four.
Illuminati Ventures, which is behind the application, could not be contacted for comment yesterday.
The sub-committee is due to make a decision at a meeting on Monday. (June 10)
