Insight Point:

The approval of plans for a strip club in Cheltenham has sparked concerns about the impact on gender equality and women’s safety.

Introduction:

Controversial plans for a strip club to open in Cheltenham have been approved by the local council. The club, called Eroticats, has been granted permission to hold events at Under the Prom for three nights during Cheltenham Racecourse’s meeting in November. While some argue that sexual entertainment venues undermine efforts to achieve gender equality and pose safety concerns, others believe that the club’s operators have implemented robust conditions to ensure compliance and protect workers’ rights.

Gender Equality Concerns:

There are concerns that the opening of a strip club in Cheltenham could undermine efforts to achieve gender equality. Gilli Appleby, CEO of Gloucestershire Rape and Sexual Abuse Centre (GRASAC), called on the council to reject the license and prioritize the safety of women and girls. She cited evidence of a rise in disorder around sexual entertainment venues and questioned the public interest in such establishments in Cheltenham. These concerns highlight the potential negative impact on women’s safety and overall gender equality in the town.

Robust Conditions and Operator’s History:

Imogen Moss, speaking on behalf of Eroticats, emphasized that the club’s management and staff have received training on vulnerability, anti-sexual harassment, and bystander intervention. She argued that sexual entertainment venues are lawful activities and that it is better to have a licensed operator with a history of good operation and compliance. Moss stated that the club’s robust conditions hold them accountable for any non-compliance. She also highlighted the potential negative consequences of not enabling sexual entertainment venue licenses, which could stigmatize workers and impact the livelihoods of predominantly female employees.

Conclusion:

The approval of plans for a strip club in Cheltenham has sparked a debate about gender equality and women’s safety. While concerns have been raised about the potential negative impact on these issues, proponents argue that the club’s operators have implemented robust conditions and prioritized compliance. The decision by the council to approve the license reflects the need to balance these concerns with considerations for workers’ rights and the viability of such establishments.