Strip clubs could gradually disappear from Aberdeen after councillors agreed a new licensing policy aimed at reducing the number of venues to zero.
Aberdeen City Council’s licensing committee has adopted a “presumption against” granting new sexual entertainment venue licences, meaning the city’s five existing clubs can continue operating and seek renewals, but new premises or replacement operators could be refused.
Licensing committee convener Gill Al-Samarai said: “The committee made the decision after careful consideration of all the factors involved with the prime consideration of public safety.
“In developing the current licensing policy and the amendment agreed today, we took care to balance the freedom of individuals to engage in legal employment and activities with the right to exercise appropriate control and regulation to ensure the safety, health and wellbeing of the staff and patrons.”
Private Eyes owner Tony Cochrane criticised the move, warning: “If they are looking to close sexual entertainment venues (SEVs) down, all they are doing is pushing the industry underground.”
He added: “We have been in Aberdeen for more than 20 years. It is a well-run industry and we are happy to work with the council.”