THE sex shop that opened six weeks ago in Poole High Street to a barrage of complaints, has been granted a licence which enables it to sell more explicit material.

Purrfectly Discreet’s application, which allows it to sell DVDs restricted to over 18s, items used for sexual activity or acts of force or restraint, attracted 63 letters of objection from residents – and 12 letters of support.

Borough of Poole’s licensing committee granted the application for the shop at 82 High Street with a number of special conditions.

Chairman Cllr John Rampton, said: “We carefully considered both the application and the objections received, but felt there was insufficient evidence to warrant the refusal of the application.

“As a result of the application’s approval, we now have more control over the premises than we did before. In addition the conditions imposed on the licence address some of the objections raised by local people.”

Cllr Chris Wilson, who represents the area said: “Whilst we do not want empty shops in the High Street I really feel that this shop is inappropriate in an area where we are hoping to encourage tourists and families to visit.” Poole Old Town Conservation Group chairman, Bill Constance said: “Tourists and families must be encouraged into the High Street. The shop, as presented will deter the footfall that is essential for the long term viability of the town centre.”

However shop owner John Budimir thanked the council for its “fair and open minded manner”.

He said: “I hope that by my creating the most female friendly, couple friendly, gay and lesbian friendly adult store in Dorset and Hampshire it will be soon looked upon as one of the historic town attractions.”

His solicitor, Sandra Graham of HLF Law added: “I know this is an emotive subject but the Licensing Committee have to balance the interests of local business in the town with that of some local people who have objected.

“It is not always an easy task.

“There were a considerable number of letters in support of the applicant too.”

The conditions include installing a fully operational CCTV system, access doors shall remain closed, all windows to be frosted to at least two-thirds high, no photos, text, drawings or images to be displayed, warning signs on the front doors and curtains in the windows to be drawn at all times.

The only items for sale immediately inside the shop and in the first room should be lingerie only and no sex toys, dvds, videos or forms of electronic media should be on sale or displayed in the first room.