ENTREPRENEUR Richard Carr has dispelled rumours that Bournemouth's former register office is to be transformed into a lap-dancing club.

The Future 3000 chairman insisted that Wiggle supper rooms and bar on Old Christchurch Road would host "adult entertainment" but "no public dancing whatsoever".

"It will be a restaurant with all sorts of acts such as comedians and illusionists. There will be no live dancing of any description," he stressed.

But Sally Wilton, who runs an employment agency opposite, is not convinced. She said: "The word on the street is that it is going to be a lap-dancing club and local businesses are understandably concerned.

"We already have a lot of incidents here at night, including vandalism. The police come into our office about once a month to study the CCTV security cameras.

"The establishment of more late night licensed businesses, not predominantly open in the day, is not good for the development of successful commerce in the area.

"Another concern I have is that the opening of a lap-dancing venue in the town promotes a servile image of women which I strongly disagree with."

She added: "The website promoting Wiggle is extremely suggestive and certainly doesn't sound like it is advertising a new restaurant."

The Future 3000 website states that Wiggle, which is due to open at the end of June, will provide "luxury surroundings and unsurpassable entertainment".

It adds: "Indulge in the quality food while enjoying the floor show.

"After your dining prepare yourself for something to keep the ultimate appetite alive.

"Sit back, relax and enjoy, then watch the most beautiful girls from around the world. They will entertain, amaze and excite."

Bournemouth council spokeswoman Michelle Henry said: "The planning application we have received for 159 Old Christchurch Road states that the building will be used as a restaurant.

"There is no indication that it will be used for any lap-dancing entertainment. As part of the application, which will be put before the planning board in May, there will be no live music or public dancing."

First published: April 28, 2006