The Urban Tiger in Bristol applied to review its SEV licence but faced objections from campaigners who claimed that the venue was “sexist”.
Philip Kolvin QC, head of Cornerstone Barristers and IoL Patron, represented the venue before the city council hearing. Mr Kolvin reportedly told the licensing committee that “…the lapdancers were working in a safe environment. Many female supporters of the club, including those who visited the venue with their partners, also voiced their support” and that the dancers “…regard themselves as feminists.”
Objectors to the application objected on the grounds of equality duty and rights with one saying: “I am unable to avoid seeing Urban Tiger whenever I go to the city centre area. I experience this as a constant reminder of my place as a woman in our society and of Bristol’s tolerance of sexism.
“Alongside objectification concerns, others say it is not appropriate to have strip clubs in the centre of the city close to residential apartments and close to areas used by families with young children.”