Lap dancing clubs in Cardiff are to apply for new licences under new government legislation approved by Cardiff Council today.
There are currently four licensed sex establishments in the city – where the entertainment includes lap dancing or involves nudity. There are also seven premises which have entertainment licences with additional conditions concerning lap dancing. The re-classification of such premises as 'sex establishments' will give the local authority more power to regulate the venues which apply for licences.
The new government legislation is seen as a chance to put more control on lap dancing venues which was approved by the public protection committee this morning.
There will be a transitional period of 12 months for current venues to apply for the new licence which will then be considered by Cardiff Council and come into play in 2011.
An application for a new lap dancing club on a boat on the river Taff will be discussed by the licensing committee this Friday at 10am.
Newport Road to undergo air quality survey
The committee also approved plans for a stretch of Newport Road to be monitored for air quality.
The area around Stephenson Court on the busy bus route will be assessed as an Air Quality Management Area (AQMA) after it was revealed in a report air pollution was exceeding national standards.
There are currently two AQMAs in Cardiff for the areas around High Street and St Mary Street and on Cowbridge Road West in Ely.
Street traders to stay in Working Street
Two street traders who have been moved from spot to spot in the city centre following the build of the St David's 2 shopping centre will finally be able to settle after the council approved plans to designate The Hayes as their new home.
The two traders – Paul Harris who sells flowers, fruit, vegetables, roasted chestnuts and cream, and Martyn and Warren Fowler who sell fruit, vegetables and flowers - were relocated in the city to make way for the redevelopment surrounding the shopping centre and pedestrianisation of the streets surrounding.
The traders are happy to finally settle in Working Street in The Hayes. Operational manager for licensing, Paul Shone, said:
"These two traders have been moved about and hopefully this will be the final report – then they can trade in Working Street officially and they are happy with the pitch they have been allocated."
