By PAUL YANDALL
HAMILTON - The man who wanted to open a two-storey bar and massage parlour in Hamilton's bar and cafe strip has shelved his plans following a public furore.
Peter Campbell said he had planning consent but did not want to offend neighbouring businesses or see Mayor Russ Rimmington "get
on his high horse" over it.
Mr Rimmington and local businesses had criticised the proposal, which would have seen a ground-level bar and an upper-level massage parlour and escort agency in the former Guthrie Bowron store on the corner of Hood St and Alexandra St.
The Weekend Herald revealed that council staff granted the venture planning consent last week.
Mr Campbell said he had hoped to open a "high-class" adult entertainment venue, but was now looking at other options for the site.
"We wanted something with class there, like [the Auckland strip bar] Showgirls. It's all on the backburner now."
Neighbours were concerned that it would bring a disreputable element into the area.
Goldie Dai, owner of the Little India restaurant, which is directly opposite the site, said he was relieved the venture would not go ahead.
"I've had customers come in to tell me they would not come here if it went ahead. I'm glad common sense has prevailed."
Mr Rimmington said he welcomed Mr Campbell's decision. He met council officers yesterday to see what action could be taken to prevent others from opening a similar operation in the area.
"We will look at the district plan to make sure the area does not turn into a red-light district, and we will be seeking Local Government New Zealand help."
The issue had been a lesson for the council staff who had approved the venture.
"Let's learn from that. If it wasn't for all the media attention it would have gone ahead."
