New massage parlour sparks 'red light' Easter Road fears

Published on Thursday 3 February 2011 12:35

AN application to open a massage parlour on Easter Road has raised "grave concerns" that the area will become known as a red light district.

The application from Glam for a public entertainment licence for 81 Easter Road has raised objections from locals and politicians. The firm opened last year without a licence and was forced to close and apply to the council. It claims that it does not offer sexual services, but residents say they fear its opening would thwart attempts to improve the area.

Roland Reid, secretary of the Leith Central Community Council, wrote to the city council to object to the application on behalf of many local residents. He said there were already three other premises in the area acting as massage parlours or saunas, and wrote: "We have grave concerns that another premises would establish the area as a focus for the sex industry. We therefore wish to object on grounds of over-provision.

"We have expressed a desire to work with the city council and businesses to promote regeneration on Leith Walk/Easter Road. We would not wish any development that could discourage mainstream businesses from opening premises in the area.

"The community council has striven for more than ten years to ensure that residents feel safe and that Leith is welcoming for families. Alarm has been expressed at the establishment of another parlour and I have been specifically requested to write on behalf of those who are fearful to object in their own names."

Mr Reid also said that he was concerned that the licensing process listed it purely as a "public entertainment" licence application, which he felt may not reflect the true nature of the premises.

His fears were backed by Edinburgh North and Leith MSP, Malcolm Chisholm, who has also objected to the application. He wrote: "Although Glam is being described as a massage parlour, there is a suspicion that may not be an entirely comprehensive description, especially given publicity about other similar premises. Be that as it may, those living near to 81 Easter Road are very concerned about the clientele who may be attracted to it.

"This is a densely populated area with a school nearby and there are many people who are very alarmed by the effect such a premises will have on those living, working or being educated in the area."

Glam could not be contacted for comment. Although the firm's website contains photos of scantily clad women in provocative poses, it says the firm doesn't offer sexual services and adds: "This is not a sex shop, we don't offer sexual favours."You wouldn't go into Hooters and ask their staff for sexual favours, so please give our staff the same respect. Sex appeal is legal and it sells, therefore we are successfully using the concept along with our commitment to quality operation."

The application will be considered by the council's licensing sub-committee on March 4.