The iconic LGBTQIA+ venue in London faces a 28-day closure following serious allegations of rape against a security guard, raising concerns over public safety and the club’s security measures.
Heaven Nightclub, an iconic LGBTQIA+ venue in London, has been ordered to close temporarily following a serious allegation involving one of its security staff members. Situated off Villiers Street in Charing Cross, Heaven has been a vibrant part of the city’s nightlife since its establishment in 1979. This temporary closure comes after a woman accused a security guard at the club of rape earlier this month.
The Metropolitan Police, expressing concerns over public safety, requested the closure. Subsequently, the Westminster Council’s licensing committee agreed to suspend Heaven’s operating licence for 28 days, pending a full hearing scheduled for December. This action underscores the serious nature of the accusation and the immediate safety concerns linked to the incident.
The alleged incident occurred in close proximity to the club. The woman claims that after being refused entry, she was sexually assaulted by a security guard and, despite seeking assistance from other staff members, her pleas were ignored. The security guard in question has since been arrested and formally charged with the crime.
A spokesperson for the Westminster Council explained the decision, stating: “Following a request from the Metropolitan Police, and after reviewing evidence from both the police and the operator, the council’s licensing committee has decided to suspend Heaven’s licence for 28 days. We recognise this venue’s cultural significance but the committee agreed this step is necessary to prevent serious crime and protect the public. A full licensing hearing will be held in December where both the police and venue management will have the opportunity to present new evidence.”
The closure of the venue adds to the scrutiny around safety protocols at Heaven. The Metropolitan Police revealed concerns after a previous incident in May, where three members of the club’s security team were filmed assaulting a customer outside the venue. This raised questions about the club’s ability to ensure customer safety.
In response to the recent allegations, Heaven Nightclub has issued a statement on Instagram acknowledging the gravity of the situation. The club expressed its inability to comment further due to the ongoing criminal investigation but extended thoughts to the alleged victim. They also stated their determination to improve safety measures to regain the council’s confidence.
The statement read: “Following an allegation that a security guard sexually assaulted a woman who had been refused entry to Heaven Nightclub, Westminster Council has suspended Heaven’s premises license which means we have to close until further notice. We are considering our position with regard to an appeal. Our priority is to put new procedures in place to make sure nothing like this can happen again and gain the confidence of the Council as we move forward.”
Heaven Nightclub has been a longstanding cultural landmark, widely recognized for its contribution to London’s LGBTQIA+ community by providing a safe space for celebration and self-expression. The venue has hosted numerous high-profile and international performers, including stars from the Drag Race, marking its significance in the city’s cultural landscape.
As the situation develops, both the local community and customers of Heaven await further updates and the outcomes of the December hearing.
Source: Noah Wire Services