Richard Wilson

This evening I attended a meeting of our local ’safer neighbourhood’ policing panel.  One issue that was raised at the very start of the meeting was residents’ concerns about a new Thai Massage Parlour that says it is ‘opening soon’ on Stroud Green Road next door to Nandos (see picture).  Locals have expressed concerns about the possibility of it being used as a front for prostitution, as massage parlours have in nearby areas.

My colleague Ed Butcher has already contacted the Council last week demanding to know if the parlour has applied for all the correct approvals from the Council’s Planning and Licensing Departments and what can be done if this isn’t the case.  The shop used to be a bakery and they would probably have to apply for a change of use to the Council.  Of course, this could turn out to be an entirely legitimate business, but local people are sceptical and a number of women have said they would feel less safe if there was a brothel operating in the area.

The local police have agreed to keep an eye on the situation – and pay a visit if and when the parlour opens.