MANSION nightclub in Micklegate is no stranger to controversy.

Last week it successfully beat opposition to a licence extension until 5am seven days a week, and 6am on race days, despite police pleas that their stretched resources could not cope with longer drinking hours.

Now Mansion has applied to bring its lap and pole dancing club Upstairs downstairs and offer sexual entertainment, again until 5 am Monday to Sunday and on race days, Understandably there is disquiet among residents who fear such activities might be visible to passers-by.

North Yorkshire Police is also concerned, mainly because of a lack of CCTV, cameras which the force insists are necessary to protect dancers.

We do not think change will be in everybody’s interest and we feel Mansion should accept its past victories and back down with grace.

This latest move is a step too far.