A Southport gentlemen's club is already dividing opinion ahead of a council decision on whether it should be granted a Sexual Entertainment Venue (SEV) licence. Eccentric Gents Club, also known as Monroe's, has long been based on Coronation Walk in Southport. The venue markets itself as a gentlemen's club located close to the town centre and nearby hotels.
On its website, the business describes itself as "a hotspot among gentlemen's and strip clubs", offering "upscale, discreet adult entertainment" in an intimate setting. The website states: "Eccentric caters for everyone from discerning gentlemen to the high city roller while you're visiting the town for business or private reasons, treating yourself to an evening of sensual entertainment, or planning a golf trip, corporate function or special party."
On Tuesday, June 16, Sefton Council's Licensing Sub-Committee will meet to consider an application for a Sexual Entertainment Venue licence at the premises. While the venue has traded as a gentlemen's club for several years, an SEV licence is the specific legal permission required for premises offering live sexual entertainment, such as lap dancing and striptease performances. Councillors will decide whether to grant, refuse or impose conditions on the licence.
The application has already become a hot topic locally, with strong views being expressed before the committee has made its decision. The upcoming application was shared on Facebook in the Southport News group, gathering over 170 comments.
John Boye said: "The main priority has to be the non-exploitation of the employees if it does go ahead. Apart from that, it has as much interest to me as a golf shop." Tiffany Mahoney added: "I don't see the problem. We have had strip clubs on Coronation Walk before, so it's nothing new. If you don't want to see it, don't visit it. It's simple."
Emma Howard wrote: "New business for the town. Great news, in my opinion", and Philip Brooke said: "I'd rather have a Greggs." Matthew Bowles commented: "There's been a strip club there for years. If you don't want to go, don't go. It's better than derelict buildings." Tony Parry said: "OK, but is that not just a standard night out in Southport?" Ste Southern added: "Better than another charity shop or coffee house."
