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Popular London nightclub Heaven has been closed on public safety grounds after a rape was reported, the Metropolitan Police said.<\/p>\n
The force successfully applied to Westminster Council to suspend the licence of the Villiers Street venue until a full hearing can take place.<\/p>\n
In an initial hearing on Friday, the council was told a woman was allegedly raped in the vicinity of the venue by a member of security staff on 1 November. The Met said a member of security staff was arrested and charged with rape, and is on remand in prison.<\/p>\n
The suspension will take effect immediately, the Met said, meaning Heaven will be closed from Friday night onwards.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
The hearing was told that when the woman tried to report the attack, other staff allegedly ignored her.<\/p>\n
A council spokesperson said: \u201cFollowing a request from the Metropolitan Police, and considering evidence from both the police and the operator, the council\u2019s licensing committee has decided to suspend Heaven\u2019s licence for 28 days.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe recognise this venue\u2019s cultural significance but the committee agreed this step is necessary to prevent serious crime and protect the public.<\/p>\n
\u201cA full licensing hearing will be held in December where both the police and venue management will have the opportunity to present new evidence.<\/p>\n
“This case is currently subject of an ongoing police investigation, and we are unable to comment further at this stage.”<\/p>\n
Heaven posted on Instagram to say: “We are sickened by this allegation but can’t comment as it is an on going criminal investigation. We can only send out thoughts to the alleged victim.”<\/p>\n<\/div>\n