Fears that sex belt will make ‘threatening atmosphere’ even worse

A PORN boss is on a collision course with residents over plans to open a sex shop in Swiss Cottage.
Licensing chiefs are due to decide whether Ray Darker, who owns more than 90 sex shops across the country, can open for business in Finchley Road.
The Darker Enterprises business empire includes shops in Brighton, Liverpool, Leeds and Manchester.
But Mr Darker’s first application in the north of Camden has sparked concern from those living and working nearby.
One objector claims that allowing a shop to open could lead to the creation of a “sex belt”.
Concerned residents could now come face to face with Mr Darker at a crucial session at the Town Hall tonight (Thursday) – if they feel strongly enough to turn up for the decisive meeting.
One objector has told the council in a protest letter: “There are several schools in the vicinity. I pass children on their way to school on a daily basis, some accompanied by parents but some unaccompanied. It is not appropriate that they should have to pass such an establishment.”
The letter adds: “The fact that there is already a topless lap-dancing bar at 309 Finchley Road (Secrets) means there is a risk of creating a belt of sex-related industries.
“There are already several licensed premises in the vicinity, and this development would exacerbate an already threatening atmosphere in the evenings.”
Another letter of objection says: “Such premises will inevitably lead to large numbers of people, especially men, being around the premises after dark... the risk of attack is greatly increased by a shop of this type being granted a licence. This seems both dangerous and a serious risk.”
But councillors will have to consider the application with care.
If they turn down the bid without reasonable justification, Mr Darker could appeal against their decision through the courts.
Such proceedings would focus on a council decision in late 2003 to designate Finchley Road as a “major town centre”, a move which residents bitterly opposed.
Mr Darker’s application did not reveal the identity of the new shop’s manager, who would be appointed only if the licence is granted.
Police have raised no objections to the licence being approved.
Written papers submitted by Darker Enterprises said: “We would comply with any requirements of the council.”