Politics
Strippers stage protest over Bristol’s plan to ban lap dancing clubs
STRIPPERS staged a protest over a city’s plan to become the latest in England to ban lap dancing clubs.
Performers paraded in lingerie and held up placards in a battle to save two venues.
Strippers stage a protest on College Green, Bristol[/caption]
They say the controversial move will mean about 100 people lose their jobs at the Urban Tiger and Central Chambers clubs in Bristol.
Lap dancers joined campaigners to protest at the city council’s plan, which Labour mayor Marvin Rees supports.
Stripper Chloe, 23, said: “We are not going to stop working. It’s about having licensed, regulated strip clubs.
“Our safety is under threat. Our workplaces are under threat.”
Tackling strip clubs was a 2016 election pledge made by Mr Rees after feminist campaigners said they objectified and facilitated violence against women.
Blackpool council has plans to close four lap dancing clubs in a drive to become a family-friendly resort.
A lap dancer holds up a placard and raises her fist[/caption]
Adult entertainers pose with their backs to the camera[/caption]
The strippers colour coordinate in red smalls and brolly[/caption]
The professionals protested with masks on but clothes off[/caption]
The protesters claim 100 people will lose their jobs[/caption]
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Councils in North Tyneside, Swansea and Exeter and nine London boroughs have banned clubs.
Surveys in Bristol show many locals do not mind the clubs, as long as they are not near schools, housing estates and women’s refuges.
Dancer Amélie said: “I feel safer at Urban Tiger walking around in my underwear than anywhere else clothed.”
Campaign group Bristol Sex Workers Collective said: “It is not the council’s role to decide what women can and cannot do with their bodies.”
