A BRIERLEY Hill nightclub frequented by gang members has been shut down.

Two stabbings have taken place at Pulse nightclub, Dudley Road, in the last 12 months, prompting West Midlands Police to take action.

The force encouraged Dudley Council's licensing sub-committee to review the club's licence after two men received serious stab wounds after a brawl at the venue last month.

Committee chairman, Councillor Donella Russell, said although the licence holder Steve Simpson surrendered the licence before the meeting, members still decided to proceed and revoke the licence.

She continued: "There are a lot of issues surrounding the club. There have been stabbings there and over the last four years it has built up a reputation. People in gangs are known to go there."

Cllr Russell said: "At this moment, the safest thing is for it to remain shut."

PC Sunny Cheema, Dudley licensing officer at West Midlands Police, said: “We are very pleased with this result.

“Pulse as a venue put Dudley borough at risk of increased gang activity and the licencee offered limited control and management to counteract this, despite the many conditions already requested via his license.

“This proactive enforcement sends out a clear message to other licenced premises that any venues in the area that breach their licencing conditions will be investigated and action will be taken."

Mr Simpson has 21 days to appeal the decision.