Heaven nightclub to reopen under strict conditions after rape arrest

Iconic gay nightclub Heaven, which closed after an alleged rape by a bouncer, will reopen under strict conditions.

The venue, in Charing Cross, London had its licence suspended following the suspected assault on November 1 and faced possible permanent closure.

However, at a hearing on Friday councillors allowed the club to reopen as long as it adhered to a list of new conditions, which include a ‘last entry’ of 3am, a ban on drinking alcohol in the queue and improved security.

Westminster City Council heard how the victim of the alleged rape was removed from the club’s ‘very long queue’ – where she had been waiting for two hours – and then allegedly, ‘preyed upon’ by a bouncer, reports the Evening Standard.

The woman, who was intoxicated, says she was then raped in a car, according to lawyer Gary Grant, representing the Met Police.

Councillor Maggie Carman agreed that Heaven was associated with allegations of ‘serious crime’, which had been at forefront of the committee’s minds.

She said there was clear evidence of a change in general management of the club since the alleged attack, and that the licence holder has been working in partnership with the Met Police to help prevent similar incidents in the future.

Cllr Carman acknowledged that Heaven provides an important service to people, especially those in the LGBTQIA+ community, and said the committee recognises the ‘iconic nature of the premises.’

The hearing was told the Met Police did not want the club to close, only that safety was improved to protect visitors, especially those who are vulnerable due to drinking excessive alcohol.

The club said it was ‘appalled’ by the alleged rape and that it would continue to work closely with police.

A Met Police spokesperson told the Metro: ‘We are aware of the decision taken by the Westminster Council Licensing Committee in relation to Heaven nightclub.

‘The committee heard all the evidence from the police and the venue, including details of the commitments that have been made on security and safeguarding in recent weeks.

‘Our licensing team will monitor compliance with the venue’s licence carefully, including any new assurances given, to ensure they have the intended effect for the benefit of customers and the local community.’

In a previous unconnected incident, three bouncers at Heaven beat up a customer on the floor. They were all fired. 

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