Lap dance club go-ahead

Ambitious plans to transform a former cinema and nightclub into one of the Black Country's premier lap dancing venues have been given the go-ahead.

The proposals to turn what was formerly the Danilo cinema and The Picture House nightclub, in Hagley Road, Stourbridge, into Barbarella's pole dancing club were given the green light by Dudley Council's licensing committee yesterday.

The only objection, from the police, was withdrawn following a meeting between officers and members of the club's management.

The club will feature up to 50 nude dancers and a giant US-style pole dancing stage and booths for private dances are being installed. Owners Enterama hope to open the club until 4am, making the latest opening venue in town, and expect it to be ready early in the new year.

Manager Chris Stanley said the club would attract an older, more discerning audience than it did when it was a nightclub.

"It's excellent news," he said.