PLANS for a controversial lap dancing club in Accrington have been given the go-head by Hyndburn council today.

The decision to allow the iCandy bar in Blackburn Road split the council down the middle, with the deciding vote being cast by chairman of the planning committee Coun Bernard Dawson.

More than 1,500 people had signed a petition in a last ditch attempt to stop the club from opening.

However officers recommended the plans got the green light saying that the club would maintain the character and vitality of the town centre.

An alcohol and Sexual Entertainment Licence had already been granted by the council to proposers Candy Leisure Ltd.

Speaking during the meeting on behalf of the applicants, Stuart Booth said: “Candy Leisure Ltd has liased with the council and the police for many months to ensure that stringent restrictions are in place.

“The club is vital to the night time economy in Accrington and will provide a boost employment to other pubs in the town centre and to taxis.

“The club will not be open during the day and that the inside of the club will not be visible.”

Coun Clare Cleary opposed the proposal saying: “Although the club may bring employment into the town, this is not the type of employment that young women in Accrington should be aspiring too.”

Reverend Kevin Logan, who complied the petition, spoke at the meeting. He argued that its location within a conservation area and with close proximity to a church and opposite the town hall, was out of character and detrimental to the amenities of the area.

Speaking after the meeting he said that they would continue to fight the decision.

He said: “It was inappropriate to let the decision come down to a casting vote when half the council was against it.

“It will be an unpopular decision and I will be taking the matter up again when they have to re-apply for the licence in September.”

Coun Dawson, speaking after the meeting, said that although members may disagree with the club morally, the plans complied with planning regulations.