Time is running out to give views on plans to tighten regulations in case of any proposals for lap dancing clubs and sex shops in Stafford Borough. 
 
Residents and businesses have just over a week left if they want to comment on the consultation on a draft ‘Sex Establishment Policy’ for the area.  
 
The policy aims to give local people and councillors greater control over potential sex establishments, including how they operate and where they can be located. It would help thwart legal challenges and appeals if the council opposed applications for premises such as lap dancing clubs, sex shops, and strip shows. 
 
People have until Wednesday 26 July to have their say on the draft policy at www.staffordbc.gov.uk/sex-establishment-policy-consultation Copies are also available by contacting the council’s Licensing Section at ehlicensing@staffordbc.gov.uk or telephone 01785 619745.  
 
The policy would mean if the council did have applications for such venues, they would have to be heard by the authority’s licensing sub-committee before they could be approved.  
 
It would also ensure venues could not open in unsuitable locations such as near schools, places of worship and children’s play facilities if an application was made.  
 
A final decision on the draft policy will be made by the council later this year.  
 
Councillor Ian Fordham, Cabinet Member for Environment, said the policy would give more transparency in decision making if they were ever to have applications for sex establishments in the borough.  
 
He said: “Thank you to everyone who has contributed to the consultation so far. There is still time if you want to give us your feedback and all the comments will be considered before finalising our draft policy.  
 
“The policy would give the council and community more control if applicants want to open these types of premises - or vary an existing licence - and it provides us with a stronger position to resist any legal challenges to our decisions.” 

Press Release No 6050