Council temporarily shuts down adult members' club

A newly-opened adult members' club in a village in Leicestershire has been temporarily closed down by council officials.

Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council said it had issued a 56-day stop order to the owner of Curious, in Barwell, near Hinckley, following complaints from residents.

The authority said the notice required all activities at the former pub, in Chapel Street, to cease while it investigates alleged unauthorised use of the premises.

The club said it aimed to "operate a lawful, private club for consenting adults while being mindful, respectful neighbours who cause no harm or disruption".

A statement on the club's website said it was unable to open "due to circumstances beyond our control".

A spokesperson for the council said: "The notice took effect from 28 February and will remain in place for 56 days.

"The notice requires the business owner to cease all activities while the council carries out a formal investigation.

"This action follows complaints received from local residents from Wednesday 25 February.

"Following receipt of complaints, the council then opened a new planning enforcement investigation and issued the notice."

The BBC understands the club relocated to Barwell after leaving premises in Nuneaton and according to its website opened on 20 February.

Its website describes it as "a safe, inclusive space for adults interested in swing, kink, and fetish lifestyles, where members are free to explore in a zero-judgement environment".

In a statement, the club said: "Our club operates as a private, lawful, members-only establishment for adults.

"We maintain clear policies and procedures to ensure that all activities are conducted respectfully, discreetly, and in full compliance with relevant regulations.

"Access is strictly limited to verified adult members, and we do not promote or engage in any activity that would be inappropriate for a village setting.

"From the outset, our intention has been to integrate thoughtfully into the community.

"We have taken practical steps to minimise any potential impact on local residents, including implementing noise management measures, maintaining appropriate security, managing parking responsibly, and ensuring that members arrive and depart in a respectful manner.

"We actively remind members of their obligation to behave considerately toward neighbours at all times."

Ben Dicks, who owns a barber's shop near the club, said: "It's up to people what they get up to behind closed doors.

"They've done a good job in blacking out the windows in the new property.

"When people realised what it was, some of them kicked off.

"It's the location that has bothered people - it's right in the middle of the village.

"It's been all over Facebook with people arguing about it... but if it's well run and discreet then people will get used to it."

The club said it welcomed any opportunities to address residents' and council concerns transparently.

It added: "We also believe that businesses of all kinds have a responsibility to contribute positively to their communities.

"Our aim is simple: to operate a lawful, private club for consenting adults while being mindful, respectful neighbours who cause no harm or disruption.

"We appreciate the opportunity to clarify our position and look forward to continuing to engage in a constructive and considerate manner."

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