City OKs building, but adult entertainment remains on hold

Raleigh, N.C. — City officials have approved plans for a strip club in northwest Raleigh, but an ongoing court battle could prevent the club from ever opening as an adult entertainment venue.

Capital Cabaret would be a two-story, 10,700-square-foot club on Mount Herman Road near Raleigh-Durham International Airport. Plans include a large stage and several VIP rooms.

Neighbors have fought the club, which formerly went by the name The Runway, for three years, saying it would adversely affect the value of their businesses.

The city's approval of the building plans means the club's owners can start construction, but the challenge to a city permit allowing it to operate as a strip club remains before the state Court of Appeals.

The state Supreme Court ruled in December that the neighbors have the legal standing to challenge the city permit because of the traffic, parking and safety concerns they raised.

Attorneys for the club owners said they hope the Raleigh's approval of the building plans will bolster their cause in court.

Thee Doll House on Yonkers Road, which opened in 1992, was the new last strip club approved in Raleigh. The city doesn't allow adult entertainment clubs to locate within 2,000 feet of residential areas, offices, churches, day cares, schools or other adult clubs.