So, where in Warwick district would people like to have a pole dancing club?

In recent months, Warwick District Council has granted sexual entertainment licences to two clubs in Old Town, despite opposition from residents, shop keepers, political and church leaders calling for a ‘nil cap’.

Opponents have pointed to the fact that councillors who voted to grant licences were not from the area, while supporters of the clubs stress refusal cannot be based on moral grounds.

Now a motion proposed by Cllr Alan Wilkinson seeks to ask residents around the district where would be acceptable.

He has asked for the vote to be recorded so the public can see how their councillors voted.

Cllr Wilkinson (Lab, Leamington Brunswick) points to “growing concern” about the rising number of sexual entertainment venues in the area.

The former Leamington mayor is hoping for cross-party support for measures including a 500m zone between venues and around schools and places of worship.

Council leader Cllr Michael Doody (Con, Radford Semele) said recently each case should be considered on its own merits.

Cllr Wilkinson hopes the consultation will empower the council to adopt a nil cap, and end confusion over legislation.

Citing practical reasons such as Old Town’s recent successful Portas Pilot bid for funding to regenerate its shopping streets, Cllr Wilkinson said: “It brings down the tone of south Leamington. We have managed to win £100,000 for a Portas scheme. How terribly depressing that south Leamington, which is trying to revive itself, its café culture and its alternative shopping, should be tarnished with the image of lap dancing.”