West Lancashire Sex Establishment Licensing Policy Review

• Residents invited to have their say on Sex Establishment Licensing policy
• Consultation will last 12 weeks
• Residents encouraged to give their views

West Lancashire Borough Council's Statement of Sex Establishment Licensing Policy is currently being reviewed and residents are being invited to take part in a consultation that will inform the policy in the future. The document is reviewed every five years to ensure the content remains relevant.

Whilst it is lawful to operate a sex establishment as a legitimate section of the retail and leisure industries, it is appropriate that the Council sets out its objectives and the means by which the application processes can address potential concerns about such operations. The Council does this through the operation of a Sex Establishment Licensing Policy.

Councillor Gareth Dowling, Deputy Leader of the Council and portfolio holder for Communities and Community Safety, said: "The subject of this policy may seem somewhat controversial, but it is a legitimate area of law and it's important that we make sure all our licencing policies are fit for purpose and take into account the thoughts of local residents.

"Whilst there are no such premises in the Borough, and we are not intending to amend this policy that already sets a zero limit on such establishments, the Council could not prevent an application from being made. It is therefore only right that we regularly review the content of the policy to ensure it remains relevant. 

"This is an important opportunity to make your views known so please contact us via the consultation."

The consultation is now open. Residents can give their views about the draft policy by participating in the 12-week public consultation which will contribute to the final content of the policy.