Sunderland Dogging
Top swingers’ club faces a public backlash after announcing plans to hold sex parties complete with a dedicated ‘dogging room’.
Secrets, in Sunderland, wants to use a section of its building for overnight accommodation, complete with a full-sized car, where guests can swap sexual partners.
The club is also in the process of rolling out its party nights across the country, starting in Manchester, Leeds and London.
Sunderland City Council have asked the venue, on Villiers Street, Sunniside, Sunderland, to apply for planning permission, which would allow those with concerns to submit official objections.
The venue could be shut down if the owners do not apply for planning permission, or if their application is rejected by councillors.
However, the club sparked a mixed response from neighbours, with some open-minded and others concerned about the impact on the area.
Swinging – where couples swap sexual partners – is legal and, while the club does need planning permission, it may not need a special council licence.
Single girls and couples are offered free entry to parties advertised on the club’s website, with single men charged up to £40.
All members must be over 21 and pay an annual membership fee.
A statement on the Secrets website reads: ‘We offer a relaxed and friendly environment to meet like-minded people. All new members are shown around and given chance to ask questions.
‘We are a totally non-pushy venue – our number one rule is “no means no”. Our staff are always on hand to answer any of your questions on the night.’
Secrets declined to comment.