Council asking residents where lap dancing and strip clubs should be in Rotherham
The local authority is proposing specific policy covering sex establishments because currently any applications are judged under the policy for bars and nightclubs.
A new policy could mean applications being refused in certain locations, including near schools, places of worship, women's refuges, play areas and family leisure facilities like theatres.
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Hide AdAt the same time the council wants to introduce regulations to ensure those working in such premises are treated fairly.
Workers in sex establishments across the country are often classed as self-employed and therefore denied the benefits of being an employee, but without the freedom of self-employment.
There are currently no regulations to stop those running sex establishments imposing fines on their workers, even for minor infringements.
Coun Emma Hoddinott, cabinet member for waste, roads and community safety and chairman of the Safer Rotherham Partnership said: 'We need to look again at this particular industry in Rotherham.
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Hide Ad'It is time we reviewed the licensing around sex establishments, ensuring we have the best interests of our communities at heart when applications are heard. This is why we want to seek residents' views.'Â
The consultation will run until February 20, 2019.
To comment on the plans go to www.rotherham.gov.uk/consultations