Strip club back in business despite objections
A CITY centre strip club that asks its employees not to chew gum or drink from bottles has had its licence renewed, despite objections from local businesses.
La Belle’s strip club, based in the former Cogs Bar, opened its doors in 2019 after a £2 million renovation and amid a host of objections from people who said it was unsuitable for the area.
The club, on Newhall Street and Great Charles Street Queensway, applied for a new sexual entertainment licence to host nude lap dances and stage shows, which councillors approved.
Women employed at the club are fined £10 for every missed poledance shift and cannot stand on upholstered furniture in their heels.
They are also banned from chewing gum and drinking from bottles.
The strip club says they expect their employees to “act like ladies”.
The venue, initially closed due to financial strains resulting from the coronavirus pandemic, will now bring back its nude shows and lap dances, usually costing clients £20 for a minimum of three minutes.
Michelle Monaghan, who also runs the Cyclone gentlemen’s club on Broad Street, is behind the La Belle’s venue.
At a previous licensing committee meeting, Ms Monaghan said the strip club would enhance “Birmingham’s ability to perform on a global stage”.
She said: “I was here in front of the committee in 2019 applying for a sexual entertainment venue licence when there were 37 objectors. Now you do not have any residents objecting at all. I’ve been part of the city’s night economy now for over 20 years and been a key contributor to the local economy.
“The Belle does not harm the character or reputation of the area or in Birmingham.
“It’s a vibrant business which contributes to the local economy and will enhance Birmingham’s ability to perform on a global stage.”
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