Club closed after security guard accused of rape

Popular London nightclub Heaven has been closed for public safety reasons after a reported rape, the Metropolitan Police said.

The force has successfully applied to Westminster Council to suspend the Villiers Street venue’s license until a full hearing can take place.

At an initial hearing on Friday, the council was told that a woman was allegedly raped by a member of security staff in the vicinity of the site on November 1. The Met said a member of security staff was arrested and charged with rape and is on remand in prison.

The suspension will take effect immediately, the Met said, meaning Heaven will be closed from Friday evening.

The hearing was told that when the woman tried to report the attack, other staff allegedly ignored her.

According to the nightclub’s website, the progressive metal band VOLA would perform at the venue on Friday evening.

A council spokesperson said: “Following a request from the Metropolitan Police and taking into account evidence from both the police and the operator, the council’s licensing committee has decided to suspend Heaven’s license for 28 days.

“We recognize the cultural significance of this location, but the committee agreed that this step is necessary to prevent serious crime and protect the public.

“A full licensing hearing will take place in December, where both police and site management will have the opportunity to present new evidence.

“This matter is currently the subject of an ongoing police investigation and we are unable to comment further at this stage.”

Heaven posted on Instagram: “We are sickened by this accusation but cannot comment as it is an ongoing criminal investigation. We can only send thoughts to the alleged victim.”

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