A newly-opened adult members’ club in Barwell has been temporarily closed by Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council following complaints from local residents.
The authority confirmed it has issued a 56-day stop notice to the owner of Curious, which operates from a former pub building in Chapel Street, near Hinckley. The notice, which took effect from 28 February, requires all activities at the premises to cease while a formal planning enforcement investigation is carried out.
A spokesperson for the council said the action followed complaints received from residents on 25 February. After receiving the concerns, the council opened a new planning enforcement investigation before serving the stop notice.
The BBC understands the club relocated to Barwell after leaving premises in Nuneaton and began operating at its new site on 20 February.
Club Statement
In a statement published on its website, the club said it was currently unable to open “due to circumstances beyond our control”.
Describing itself as “a safe, inclusive space for adults interested in swing, kink, and fetish lifestyles”, the club said it operates as a private, members-only establishment for verified adults.
It added:
“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.”
The club said it had taken steps to minimise any potential impact on nearby residents, including noise management measures, security arrangements, responsible parking management and reminding members to arrive and leave respectfully.
“Our aim is simple: to operate a lawful, private club for consenting adults while being mindful, respectful neighbours who cause no harm or disruption,” the statement said.
The club also said it welcomed the opportunity to address concerns raised by residents and the council.
Local Reaction
Ben Dicks, who owns a barber’s shop near the premises, said reaction in the village had been mixed.
“It’s up to people what they get up to behind closed doors,” he said. “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 stop notice will remain in place for 56 days while the council continues its investigation into the alleged unauthorised use of the premises.
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