Public consultation reveals mixed views on local strip clubs and sex shops
By James Smith 29th Sep 2026
The future of local strip clubs and sex shops will be decided by councillors this week.
Warwick District Council is due to decide on whether to update its 'sexual entertainment establishment' policy tomorrow (September 30), following a public consultation.
Residents were given the chance to have their say on the policy which limits where and how such businesses can operate.
At present there is only one such venue in the district: Shades Gentleman's Club on Wise Street, Leamington. Its licence will not be impacted by any changes to the policy.
But it looks likely the council will continue to set a limit of zero sexual establishments for each of the three local town centres.
"The determination that a nil limit is appropriate within these areas does not prevent any person from applying for or renewing a sexual entertainment venue licence and each application will be determined on its own merits," a council report said.
The public consultation was held earlier this year, and saw just 31 responses submitted.
Of those, most were against any sexual entertainment venues anywhere in the district.
The report continued: "There were 31 consultation responses received.
"The consultation responses received were predominantly based on moral objections to sexual entertainment venues.
"These responses have been noted, however, there were also representations supporting a regulated licensing approach, with some respondents expressing the view that a licensed venue is preferable to unregulated alternatives."
The amended policy includes only minor changes.
The current one was agreed in March 2021 and it is intended the policy will be reviewed every five years.
Click here to see the council's report in full.
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