A CAMPAIGN to block a lap dancing club from operating in a north Durham town has been revived.

The opening of Red Velvet in Consett was granted five years ago despite strong public opposition.

The owners have been forced to apply for a new licence after a successful campaign in Durham to stop the opening of a club in the city centre.

Durham City MP Roberta Blackman-Woods campaigned for change in the law that means strips clubs now need a sexual entertainment venue licence.

The Local Government Miscellaneous Provisions Act was adopted by Durham County Council last year.

Red Velvet will have to curtail the adult entertainment and only be able to operate as a regular nightclub without the new licence.

North-West Durham MP Pat Glass is urging people to register their objections with the council.

She said: "This club was never wanted by local people and its activities are completely out of keeping with the local area.

"It is surrounded by three churches, and is close to homes, primary schools and Derwentside College."

Permission for the venue above a fish and chip shop was granted at a highly charged four hour meeting at the now redundant Civic Centre on Medomsley Road in January 2007.

Members of the alcohol and entertainment licensing sub-committee of the now defunct Derwentside District Council gave the go ahead, despite sharing moral sympathies, because it could not be refused on legal grounds.

Mrs Glass added: "At the time that the initial licence was granted local people, churches and organisations were very angry that they were not given the opportunity to object to the licence, but they have that opportunity now and can object to the renewal.

"I would encourage anyone or organisation who objects to this club and its activities to provide their objections to Durham County Council.

"If local people work together we can prevent the renewal of this licence."

Businessman Sonny Gill, of Gill Leisure, which runs Red Velvet, declined to comment on the matter.

Owen Cleugh, the council’s consumer protection manager, said it would be discussed at a licensing committee meeting once the level of objections have been assessed.

People have until January 18 to express their view and can email licensing@durham.gov.uk or write to The Licensing Offices, Durham County Council, Damson Way, Dragonville Industrial Estate, Durham, DH1 2YN.