The Chairman of Lowestoft Town Pastors has said he is unhappy that the Council’s ‘nil policy’ on sex establishments was not referred to when councillors granted a licence for ‘The Candy Lounge’ in the town centre this week.
Rev Matthew Payne, Vicar of Christ Church, says the reason for approving the licence, given by the Licensing Committee at the end of the hearing, did not mention the existing policy or outline any exceptional circumstances for approving the lap dance venue. He says this was despite a challenge by Jon Payne, allied lawyer to the Christian Legal Centre, who represented a group of objectors at the hearing.
The vicar added: “I am unhappy with other procedural aspects of the hearing as well, and I am grateful for the work that the Christian Legal Centre is doing in supporting us.”
The application was opposed by members of the community who objected on grounds that a sex club would be a blight on the area, and would create a very uncomfortable environment for families, vulnerable young people and holiday-makers.
Rev. Payne urged townspeople to pray for wisdom among councillors in the light of the decision by members of the Licensing Committee.
The Christian Legal Centre has a strong track record in supporting objectors opposed to sex entertainment venues.