A NEW restaurant in the town centre is set to be "Bournemouth's version of the Moulin Rouge", says entrepreneur Richard Carr.

Last month, the Future 3000 chairman denied rumours that the old register office was to be turned into a lap-dancing club, insisting there will be "no live dancing of any description".

But now, he has told the Echo the restaurant will instead host a cabaret-style show featuring dancers and comedians.

Work is currently under way at transforming the site on Old Christchurch Road into the Wiggle supper rooms and bar.

Fears were raised last month by nearby businesses that the new venue could be used as a lap-dancing club.

Mr Carr rejected those rumours, saying the restaurant would host "adult entertainment", with acts such as comedians and illusionists.

But big signs on the billboards outside the old register office are now also advertising for dancers to apply for jobs at the venue.

Mr Carr told the Echo: "There will be a cabaret with comedians and dancers.

"If you went to the Moulin Rouge in Paris, you would sit down and have your dinner and watch a show.

"This is going to be Bournemouth's version of the Moulin Rouge."

Sally Wilton, who runs the Staff2000 employment agency opposite the restaurant, gave a cautious welcome to the prospect of cabaret-style entertainment instead of a lap-dancing club.

She said: "If it's going to be like that, I don't have too many objections, as long as it's not too sleazy."

Richard Carr's Ravine Investments company already has planning permission to convert the ground floor of the building to a restaurant and the first floor to three flats.

Revised plans have now been submitted to convert the whole of the first floor into restaurant space as well.

Members of the planning board have previously refused a request to allow 24-hour opening at the premises.

First published: May 19, 2006