Later opening refused for lap dancing club

4:41pm Thursday 7th August 2008

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A string of objections from neighbours has denied the borough’s lone lap dancing club later opening hours and a new extension.

Last month a licensing sub-committee ruled that The Piano Lounge, in Twickenham, “failed to show that changes would have no adverse effects on the local area”.

“We are obviously there to make a profit but not by upsetting all the neighbours.”

Wally Angliss

Many complaints lodged came from residents of neighbouring Poulett Gardens, who are angry that children are being “exposed” to the Cross Deep club and that the external advertising, lighting and awning is predominantly pink.

One letter received by Richmond Council read: “It sickens me that my children are exposed to the explicit and degrading advertising shown on the outside of the club, which is virtually screaming for attention.

“What the hell am I supposed to say to my children, who I have protected from this kind of offensive material in order that they remain children for as long as possible.”

However, club owner, Wally Angliss, believes much of the opposition to the establishment is born out of misconception and misunderstanding and wants to work with the community to find ways forward.

He said: “You cannot fight prejudice about these sort of things.

“We do everything we possibly can to try and appease people.

“We have offered to residents and anyone else to come in and see what the premises looks like to dispel all these wrong ideas people have - you have a dance and a drink, relax and nothing untoward goes on.”

Mr Angliss had hoped that a half hour extension to the opening times “would stagger the people that leave the place and show that it’s not our customers that are making any noise”.

He continued: “We are obviously there to make a profit but not by upsetting all the neighbours.”

Mr Angliss has now ordered a new black awning to replace the pink one.

The committee’s recent ruling also reiterated restrictions on advertising the club but agreed to allow fewer door staff to work during quieter periods.