Heaven nightclub to reopen under strict conditions after rape arrest | UK News

Iconic gay nightclub Heaven, closed after an alleged rape by a bouncer, will reopen under strict conditions.

The venue, in Charing Cross, London, had its license suspended following the alleged assault on November 1 and was at risk of possible permanent closure.

However, at a hearing on Friday, councilors allowed the club to reopen provided it complies with a list of new conditions, which include a 3 a.m. “last entry” time, a ban on alcohol in the queue and improved security.

Westminster City Council heard how the alleged rape victim was removed from the club’s “very long queue” – where she had been waiting for two hours – and then allegedly “preyed upon” by a bouncer, reports the Evening Standard.

The woman, who was drunk, claims she was then raped in a car, according to lawyer Gary Grant, representing the Met Police.

Councilor Maggie Carman agreed that Heaven was associated with allegations of “serious crimes,” which were at the forefront of the committee’s concerns.

She said there was clear evidence of a change in the general management of the club since the alleged attack and that the license holder was working in partnership with the Met Police to help prevent similar incidents to the ‘future.

Cllr Carman recognized that Heaven provides an important service to people, particularly those in the LGBTQIA+ community, and said the committee recognizes the “iconic nature of the premises”.

The hearing was told that the Met Police did not want the club to close, but that security had been improved to protect visitors, particularly those who are vulnerable due to excessive drinking. alcohol.

The club said it was “appalled” by the alleged rape and said it would continue to work closely with police.

A Met Police spokesperson told the Metro: “We are aware of the decision made by Westminster Council’s Licensing Committee regarding Heaven nightclub.

“The committee has heard all evidence from the police and the venue, including details of the commitments that have been made to security and safeguarding in recent weeks.

“Our licensing team will carefully monitor compliance with the site license, including any new assurances given, to ensure it has the intended effect for the benefit of customers and the local community.”

In a previous, unrelated incident, three bouncers at Heaven knocked a customer to the ground. They were all fired.

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