Heaven nightclub to reopen after licence hearing

Heaven, a popular London nightclub, has been allowed to reopen after its operating licence was revoked due to an alleged rape by a security guard.

The Metropolitan Police had successfully applied to Westminster Council to suspend the licence of the Villiers Street LGBTQ venue on 15 November after the attack was reported.

A Westminster Council hearing reinstated the licence with stricter conditions, including a “no-entry” policy after 03:00 and enhanced security measures.

Licensing committee chair Maggie Carman reportedly said:

“The committee agree with the Metropolitan Police that the premises is associated with serious crime.

“The circumstances around the horrific and traumatic incident suffered by the victim have been uppermost in our minds.”

She added: “There is a clear change in the general management of the premises.”

The club, previously identified as the “highest crime generator in the borough,” will now employ all door security staff through a single company and increase security presence.

Regular audits will ensure compliance with the new conditions.

Mr Joseph’s representative told the meeting: “Heaven and all of the authorities sitting around this table want the same thing – that visitors should be able to come, have a wonderful time and get home safely.”