Considerations

When considering an application for a Sex Establishment Licence the Council may only use the following criteria:

• the suitability of the applicant
• if the person applying is a ‘front’ person for someone else
• the location and situation of the premises in relation to other premises in the area  if the number of sex establishments in that locality is equal to, or exceed the number which the Council considers appropriate for the area

Right of appeal 

1. Any person aggrieved by a refusal to be granted a licence, or by any condition to which a licence is subject, may appeal to the Magistrates' Court
2. An appeal against a decision made at the Magistrates’ Court may be appealed at the Crown Court but the decision of the Crown Court is final

Offences and penalties 

1.  Any person who operates a sex establishment without a licence or fails to comply with a licence condition or admits persons under the age of 18 is committing an offence 
2. Penalties upon conviction can range from £1,000 to £20,000 

Licensing policy

Contact details

If you are an applicant or a third party, you should always contact us in the first instance if you have any queries, concerns or cause for complaint preferably in the form of a letter with proof of delivery.    If you are not satisfied with the outcome and are located in the UK, Citizens Advice Consumer Service will give you advice.  If you are from outside the UK, please contact the UK European Consumer Centre.

For further information contact licensing or call 01353 665555.

Licensing enquiry form