A West London strip club has had its licence renewed for a further year despite concerns over its proximity to two schools. Secrets, located on Glenthorne Road in Hammersmith and Fulham, has been operating since 1997. The renewal allows the venue to continue providing sexual entertainment from 9pm to 4am Monday to Friday, 6pm to 4am Saturday, and 6pm to midnight on Sunday.
Objections and Support
The application received two objections and two letters of support. One objector highlighted the venue's location in a predominantly residential area and its proximity to sensitive uses, including children's educational settings. The club backs directly onto West London Free School and is within approximately 100 metres of Godolphin and Latymer school, as well as several nurseries. The objector also raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest between the operator and the local authority, though no formal allegation was made.
In contrast, one supporter described their experience as overwhelmingly positive, noting the professional and courteous staff, visible security presence, and the venue's concern for customer safety, including ensuring patrons get home safely. The supporter mentioned they had not been at the venue beyond 1 or 2 am and could not speak to noise issues at closing time.
Resident Concerns
Sam Brigstock, speaking on behalf of objector Toby Barnett at a Hammersmith and Fulham Council Licensing Sub-Committee meeting, emphasised that the venue's location in a residential area with schools and nurseries was a particular concern. He stated that sexual entertainment venues should be placed away from the curious minds of children whenever possible and highlighted the potential for increased risk to child safeguarding due to the club's proximity to schools.
Another resident, Anna Loake, expressed that she is not against Secrets as a business but is concerned about its location. She noted that the club is publicly advertised as a table dancing venue and worried about her children asking questions about table dancing. Loake described the area around the club as often full of people late at night, with cars parked outside, making it an uncomfortable experience, particularly for women walking past.
Venue's Defence
Sarah Le Fevre, a barrister representing Secrets, highlighted the venue's stable ownership since 1997 and its transformation from a loud nightclub. She noted the close and positive working relationship with the police and responsible authorities, with recent inspections raising no concerns. Le Fevre emphasised that the venue has operated without issue for many years.
During the meeting, Loake expanded on her feelings of unsafety, cautioning against undermining the dread and lack of safety women may feel in the area. She also addressed the conflict of interest suggestion, stating it was widely talked about that members of the local authority attend Secrets, though she was not making a formal allegation. She added that this perception was not good for the council's reputation.
Decision
The Licensing Sub-Committee agreed to renew the SEV licence for a further year, extending it to March 31, 2027. This renewal follows a previous renewal in October after two adjourned meetings. A Secrets spokesperson expressed delight at the renewal and looked forward to continuing to work closely with neighbours and the local authority.
