Objectors fear plans to renew a sex entertainment venue licence in Cheltenham during race week could lead to an increase in violence against women.

Cheltenham Borough Council is set to consider the premises licence which was issues for 2 Pigs Pigs in Church Street.

The renewal application is to re-license the alternative club as a sexual entertainment venue during the Cheltenham Festival week in 2022.

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The dates and times they seek the licence from 6pm to 5am from March 15 to March 18 and from 8pm to 5am on March 14 and March 19.

But several residents have objected to the proposals raising concerns it will lead to sexual attacks on women.

“The entertainment creates a high risk of sexual attacks on women and girls because of sexual arousal of men who are under the influence of drink and are unable to control their sexual desires after watching such entertainment,” one objector said.

“The area around the pub is dark, dingy and has a hidden grass area which is ideal for wanted or unwanted sexual activity.

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“Women and girls feel unsafe to walk around this area as the lighting is poor and the walkways are backwaters.”

The rector of the nearby Cheltenham Minster, St Mary’s also opposes the proposals.

“It is highly inappropriate to promote entertainment of a sexual nature in such close proximity to an ancient and active place of worship,” they said.

“The churchyard is an area where families and children gather for recreation in our town centre.”

A licensing officer said in the report that the council does not take any moral stand in relation to the operation of sex establishments.

“[This is] because the authority recognises that Parliament has made it lawful to operate a sex establishment and that such businesses are a legitimate part of the retail and leisure industries.”

The licensing committee will decide whether to grant permission or refuse the proposals at a meeting on November 3.

2 Pigs was approached but declined to comment.

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