PROPOSALS to site a lap dancing club in Accrington town centre have been criticised by members of the clergy.

The plans have been described as ‘exploitative to women’ and as bringing the ‘wrong values’ into the town centre by members of the cloth.

The scheme has attracted a mixed response from neighbours of the proposed Blackburn Road venue, with some welcoming it as a boost to trade.

Others, like Age UK manager Tasneem Khamker said the plans made her ‘wary’.

She said: “In winter we lock up after dark, so it is a bit of a worry. I don’t know what sort of clientele this will attract and so it makes me wary.

"I was surprised there hasn’t been more public objection before now.”

The news has also attracted criticism from Accrington Reverend Kevin Logan, who has described it as bringing the ‘wrong values’ into the town. The Bishop of Burnley has added that the plans exploit women.

Bishop John Goddard said: “These sorts of establishments send the wrong message about women.

I think women are worth more. “I think all people are worth more than that.”

His opinion was echoed by Reverend John Binks at Accrington’s St John’s with St Augustine’s Church said: “These plans do make me uncomfortable.

“I don’t think women should be exploted and I dont think men should be encouraged to exploit them. I think men are the weaker sex in these situations and are led into treating women as sex objects.”

However applicant, Antony Carr said it would be an ‘upmarket establishment’ that would bring jobs and trade into the town.

He said: “Everyone I have spoken to has been really positive. It will be an upmarket extablishment which will bring jobs and visitors to the town.”

Other traders echoed the view it could boost trade.

Martin Dullenty at Quattro’s restaurant said: “They would be our upstairs neighbours and I don’t mind. “I think it will bring more trade our way, if anything”.

Mohammad Afzan, owner of Alisha’s clothing store, said: “I’m not worried about it. Wetherspoons boosted trade in this part of town and this may do the same”.

The proposals to open Eye Candy lap dancing bar has been granted a Sexual Entertainment Venue licence, but has yet to be granted an alcohol licence or planning permission.