THE issue of The Lodge lapdancing club is a difficult one to debate dispassionately because of the moral factor, but we fear Oxford City Council may be setting itself up for a fall.

The council yesterday announced its was revoking the sexual entertainment venue licence following complaints the club objectified women, and caused a fear of crime and antisocial behaviour in the Oxpens area.

Much was anecdotal information and – while we wish to make it clear we are not apologists or supporters of the club – there is a valid question to be asked about what has changed in the year since the council awarded the licence.

The argument that it is so close to the ice rink and Oxford & Cherwell Valley College is a valid one – but those buildings were there 12 months ago.

On the fear of crime or antisocial behaviour, it would appear Thames Valley Police have not presented any evidence.

And the moral issue of whether this establishment should be operating in the city has not changed either.

The councillors have made an honest decision. But our concern is that the council may find itself very vulnerable to a challenge in a higher court.