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Westminster Council has suspended the license of London nightclub, Heaven, after it was revealed that a woman was allegedly raped in the vicinity of the venue by a member of security staff in November. The Metropolitan Police applied for the license to be suspended, citing public safety grounds. A member of security staff at the nightclub has been charged with rape and is on remand in prison. The suspension will take effect immediately, closing the venue on Friday night, and will last for 28 days until a full review of the case is heard in December.
During the initial hearing on Friday, the council heard allegations that other staff at the popular venue ignored the woman when she tried to report the attack. A council spokesperson said that “it’s cultural significance” was recognised, however, the council’s licensing committee agreed that the 28-day suspension was necessary to “prevent serious crime and protect the public”. The nightclub has posted a statement on Instagram saying that it was “sickened by the allegation but (that) it can’t comment as it is an ongoing criminal investigation.”
Heaven is part of the G-A-Y brand, which is owned by founder Jeremy Joseph. Over the years, the brand has grown into a global LGBTQ+ brand, with venues in London, Manchester and around the world. As a leading venue for the thriving gay community, Heaven regularly hosts live performances and club nights, including its progressive metal nights, which have been popular over recent years. The decision to suspend the venue’s license has been met with anger and disappointment from members and owners, given the significance of the venue to the LGBTQ+ community.
Despite the outrage, the council has underlined the importance of the suspension, emphasising that they are focused on protecting people from potential risks. The police have reportedly launched an investigation into the incident, and both authorities and the venue management will have the opportunity to present new evidence at the full licensing review hearing in December. Until that time, Heaven – and its role in supporting London’s thriving LGBTQ+ community – will remain closed
Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More
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