ladbible logo

To make sure you never miss out on your favourite NEW stories, we're happy to send you some reminders

Click 'OK' then 'Allow' to enable notifications

​People Fear For Lap Dancers' Safety And Livelihoods With Bristol Set To Ban Clubs

​People Fear For Lap Dancers' Safety And Livelihoods With Bristol Set To Ban Clubs

Many argue that keeping such venues open will help ensure the ‘safety’ of workers

Jess Hardiman

Jess Hardiman

Following news that Bristol could ban lap dancing bars and strip clubs in a bid to prevent the harassment of women, people have been weighing in on the debate - with many arguing that keeping such venues open and legitimate will help ensure the 'safety' of workers.

The proposal, which was voted through on 8 March, will go to a 12-week consultation period, with members of the public and interest groups given the opportunity to offer their thoughts.

A similar move has been put forward in Blackpool, where officials recently announced they were cracking down on the number of sex venues allowed to operate in order to underline its reputation as a family resort.

Margaret Hickman, leader of the ruling Labour group in Bristol, said: "Casual street harassment of women and domestic homicide are some of the biggest issues Bristol has to deal with.

PA

"We can't ignore the violence against women that is perpetrated by people who attend these venues."

However, many Bristol councillors have expressed their concern for the move, saying it would be 'safer' to keep such venues open.

And it seems that the general public largely agree, with fears that a ban on lap dancing clubs could lead to more harm.

One wrote: "As a woman - I don't like the idea of strip bars personally. However, it's going to happen.

"Better to do it safely through legal channels with the consent of grown ups and a safe space for the women rather than some shady underground version that will put any of the performers in danger."

Another agreed, writing: "You ban the clubs, you force them to take it underground, with no safety at all!"

A third wrote: "If these close, women's safety would be even more at risk. People will open backstreet clubs etc where women are not safe and have no one to look after them.

"They will go to houses and venues that are not safe to make the same money they've been used to."

Central Chambers in Bristol has criticised the move on social media.
Google Maps

Another said: "Absolutely ridiculous. More likely that this will simply mean that the girls will be out of a job during an already difficult time."

Another added: "Making girls unemployed doesn't seem very supportive."

However, not everyone opposed the ban.

One wrote: "Trust me, initiatives like this will strengthen women's right if you try to see this in a long term perspective."

Another said: "Stop making it possible for a man to 'buy' a woman to strip. Ban lap dancing. It's giving a message to men that we are commodities to be bought and used for their pleasure."

LADbible has reached out to Bristol City Council for comment.

Featured Image Credit: PA

Topics: UK News, News