Catford French restaurant gets second chance after 'sex in basement' (From News Shopper)

Catford French restaurant Le Bourgeois given second chance after 'sex in the basement' claims

12:17pm Monday 21st January 2013 in Lewisham By Sarah Trotter

A CATFORD French restaurant threatened with closure after allegations of sex in the basement has been given a second chance.

Neighbours of Le Bourgeois restaurant had complained of stripteases, late night adult parties, and even people defecating outside.

Police originally called for the premises - located beneath aptly-named Eros House flats on Brownhill Road – to be stripped of their licence at a Lewisham Council licensing committee meeting on January 17.

But following the business cleaning up its act, it will now open under reduced hours and close scrutiny by police.

A spokeswoman for Lewisham police said: "Our initial intention was to seek a revocation of the licence, however since the instigation of the investigation the proprietor has made efforts to better manage the premises.

"He recognised that a reduction in hours, a change of designated premises supervisor (licensee), and further conditions on his licence will also better enable him to make the improvements he needs to satisfy the police and licensing authority."

She added that there would be "little room to fail in the future" if conditions did not improve.

Residents concerned with problems at licensed premises can contact Sergeant Jim Abbott at Lewisham police station or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.