CAMPAIGNERS are to mount a last-ditch attempt to prevent a lap dancing club opening in the centre of Accrington.

The proposed I Candy nightclub has already recevied a Sexual Entertainment Venue license and an alcohol licence. Campaigners against the bid say they hope to stop the plan at the final hurdle — their bid for planning permission next week.

Campaign leader Rev Kevin Logan said they felt they had good grounds to appeal for refusal on the basis the site, opposite Accrington Town Hall was unsuitable for the venue. However the applicants have filed for planning permssion on the basis the club would create jobs, and help revitalise Accrington’s nightlife.

The proposed hours at the location would see it open from 7pm to 1am weeknights and 7pm to 3am on Saturdays, Sundays and bank holidays.

Agents for the club owners Candy Leisure Ltd said the proposal was “ideally suited” for a town centre location. They added that the club, on the the first floor of a Blackburn Road building, would be low key and unobtrusive with a single door entrance.

However Rev Logan said: “It is just completely unsuitable for the area. Every day bus loads of children go past his location and we are supposed to be teaching them to be responsible about sex. I also just find it amazing that after a generation of improving the roles of women, they are being offered up for cash in a small town such as Accrington.

“We are to attend the planning meeting to speak out against it and we have a good case. We also hope as many people as possible will write to the council with their own concerns”

The Planning Committee meeting at the council’s head offices on Ormerod Street on Wednesday April 11 is to take place in two stages. The morning meeting will focus solely on the I Candy bar application at 11am.