Council fends off JR challenge from lap dancing club

Oxford City Council has won a Judicial Review brought by a lap-dancing club over a decision of the council's licensing and registration sub-committee to reject its application for the annual renewal of the club’s sexual entertainment venue licence.

The sub-committee turned down the Lodge's renewal in September 2012 and last week's ruling by Mr Justice Haddon-Cave upheld its decision . He rejected arguments that the council had taken account of “irrelevant and inaccurate factors” and that a committee member had shown bias.

Council leader Bob Price said: “We are pleased that the court has upheld the decision of the panel, which was based on the careful application of the criteria agreed by the Council in 2010 to define suitable locations for sex entertainment venues.

“This judgement confirms clearly that if councillors act reasonably, and in line with agreed policy, their decisions will be valid.

“It is regrettable, however, that this challenge has meant a delay in the process for withdrawing the licence.”

Club owner Alistair Thompson said: “We are shocked and very disappointed with the judgment. It has huge implications, not just on our business, but for the night time industry as a whole.

“Our legal team advise us we have a very strong case to take forward an appeal.”