Westminster City Council has granted approval for the iconic Stringfellows gentlemen's club to open a new premises in Mayfair, despite significant objections from local residents and authorities. The council's Licensing Sub-Committee has issued both Sexual Entertainment Venue (SEV) and premises licences for the Dover Street location, allowing operations until 6am seven days a week.
Controversial Approval Process
The decision follows a contentious licensing hearing on March 4 where barrister David Dadds, representing Stringfellows, argued that the venue would have less impact on the area than if the building were converted into a nightclub under its existing licence. The premises has remained vacant for several years and is conveniently located just a five-minute walk from Green Park station.
Resident Opposition and Concerns
Belinda Harley, representing both the Mayfair Neighbourhood Forum and the Residents Society of Mayfair and St James's, expressed "grave concerns" about the applications during the hearing. She emphasized the prestigious nature of the surrounding area, noting proximity to The Royal Academy of Arts, The Royal Institution, The Arts Club (founded by Charles Dickens), numerous art galleries, and the respected Brown's Hotel.
"This will mean that all night and at 5.30am loud, drunken rowdy people will spill out into the street," Harley warned committee members, highlighting fears about potential disruption to the neighborhood's character and tranquility.
Police Objections and Security Concerns
The Metropolitan Police filed formal objections to the applications, joining resident groups in expressing concerns about increased crime and public disturbance. However, Mr. Dadds contested these assertions, stating that such behavior is not typical at Stringfellows' established Covent Garden location, which has operated since founder Peter Stringfellow opened it in 1980.
Licensing Conditions and Restrictions
The Sub-Committee's decision, which was not announced immediately but later provided to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, includes numerous conditions designed to mitigate potential issues. The approved operating hours permit the venue to open from 3pm until 6am daily, with alcohol service allowed until 5am.
Specific conditions imposed include:
- After midnight, alcohol service must be ancillary to food and/or entertainment permitted under the SEV licence
- A maximum capacity of 175 people at any time
- Reduced capacity to 100 people between 3am and 6am
- All SEV activities must be conducted in the basement level
Representation and Discretion Claims
Mr. Dadds emphasized that Stringfellows' clientele typically maintains discretion, with all adult entertainment activities confined to the basement area, away from residential spaces. He argued this arrangement would minimize any impact on local residents compared to alternative uses of the property.
The approval represents a significant expansion for the Stringfellows brand, which has become synonymous with London's nightlife scene since its establishment over four decades ago. The decision comes amid ongoing debates about balancing commercial development with residential quality of life in central London neighborhoods.
