Heaven to reopen after woman was allegedly raped by member of venue’s security team

Heaven nightclub at Charing Cross in London is to reopen with strict new conditions after a woman was allegedly raped by a member of the venue’s security team on November 1.

The Met Police said a member of the security team was arrested and charged over an alleged incident that reportedly saw a drunk reveller removed from the queue and ‘preyed upon’ by a bouncer.

Westminster City Council subsequently suspended the club’s licence following a request from the police, pending a licensing hearing. Following a hearing, the suspension has now been lifted.

A spokesperson for the authority said: ‘Having considered all of the evidence presented by Heaven’s management, residents and the Met Police, the council’s licensing committee have agreed to lift the suspension of the venue’s licence.

‘The committee was satisfied that Heaven’s operators have demonstrated significant improvements to security and stated that appropriate management plans are now in place for the venue to operate safely.’

However, councillors have imposed conditions upon the venue so it can remain open.

These include a ‘last entry’ of 3am, a ban on queue drinking and revamped security.

The spokesperson added: ‘Conditions were placed on the licence to include the enhancement of queue management, improve CCTV coverage and the ability to conduct ID checks to ensure public safety.

‘This decision means that the nightclub will be allowed to reopen immediately provided all safety measures are in place.’