26 August 2020

Views sought on draft policy for the licensing of sexual entertainment venues

Views are to be sought on a policy that will guide how applications for sexual entertainment venues (SEVs) in Aberdeenshire are determined.

Councillors were asked to consider the draft Sexual Entertainment Venue Policy at a meeting of Aberdeenshire Council’s Licensing Sub-Committee on Friday (Aug 21).

The sub-committee agreed last year that measures should be put in place to allow applications to be considered from December 2020 and to ensure the regulation of such venues, in terms of the Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982.

At Friday’s meeting it was agreed that views from the public, partner agencies and community groups should be sought before the policy is finalised.

There are currently no SEVs in Aberdeenshire and the creation of the policy does not necessarily mean that will change. Giving initial views on the draft policy, councillors proposed a zero number in Aberdeenshire and its areas.

Having the policy in place provides guidance to applicants and will be relied upon when formal decisions are made.

Speaking after the meeting, Licensing Sub-Committee chair Cllr Fergus Hood said: “It is important we have a policy in place for any applications we may receive, and the sub-committee wanted to provide a steer on an appropriate number of SEVs in Aberdeenshire.

“This is just a starting point for discussion and we’re keen to get views on the draft policy from of as wide a range of partner and community groups, as well as the wider public, before a final version is agreed.”

The online survey is now live and views will remain open until Monday, September 21. Information is available at http://bit.ly/SEVshire and you can complete the survey by visiting: http://bit.ly/3b3tjM5

A report is due to come back before the sub-committee on Friday, October 2, when councillors will be asked to approve the final version of the policy.