Controversial ‘private adult members club’ given green light in Leeds

A SWINGERS club has been given the green light by the council despite objections that it will undermine regeneration efforts in the Leeds borough of Armley.

A planning application to change the use of a retail warehouse for clothing into a private adult members club has made waves in the area.

In their application the developers of the site said: “The premises propose to provide a discreet, clean, safe and controlled environment for like-minded adults to meet and potentially engage in legal sexual activities, within the private rooms provided.”

The planning included a reception area, bar and 12 private rooms. It would be open 7pm-12am weekdays and 7pm – 2am on Fridays and Saturdays

The application said surrounding businesses, including a hand car wash, a wholesale caterer and a pet store will be closed during its hours of trade.

11 letters of objection have been received, including from local councillors Alison Lowe and James McKenna on the grounds that the club will encourage criminal activity including drug use, disorderly behaviour, and payment for sexual services.

Other objectors pointed out that there was a primary school 300m away as well as the Armley Mills museum.

They said the club will attract “large numbers” of customers noise disturbance and anti-social behaviour, adding to other “sex-related establishments” in the area including Steam, a sauna aimed at gay men, and Cocktails, an adult store close to Armley Prison.

One complaint said it encouraged “the undermining of traditional family values.”

The planned club does not require a sexual entertainments licence said the authorities as activities will be between “willing and active” participants, and no alcohol will be served on site.

The application said patrons to the club would likely want to be discreet and not draw attention to themselves, diminishing potential for anti-social behaviour.