A NIGHTCLUB in Middlesbrough could still become a lap-dancing venue after police withdrew objections to plans to vary an existing licence.

Slam on Exchange Square near the town's railway station has not yet applied for a 'sexual entertainments' licence, although it is expected to do so.

But Slam's owners had applied to vary an existing licence to include opening for longer hours and that caused Cleveland Police to object due to fears that it cause anti-social behaviour.

The issue was due to be considered at Middlesbrough Borough Council's licensing committee today MON,MAR2 but police withdrew their objection after the owners of the premises, Wild West Leisure, agreed to withdraw its plan to extend the opening hours until 4am.

Wild West Leisure, who can already service alcohol until 3am from Tuesday to Saturday and 2am on Saturday, will now be able to provide entertainments like films and live music more regularly. Councillors have been informed that a new entrance, construction of a new wall, seating and booths are also to be built at the venue.

However the committee was told by council officers that an entirely new, separate application for a Sexual Entertainment Venue Licence must be submitted before any lap dancing was allowed, although such an application is expected.

The town's MP, Andy McDonald has already objected to the idea of a lap dancing club as "demeaning" and "juvenile."