Renovations began recently at a former Franklin Road strip club in Roanoke — without a permit — prompting a city code violation and renewed discussion about whether the area wants another adult entertainment venue.
The building at 3121 Franklin Road has gone by several names over the decades, including Gold & Silver Gentleman’s Club, Juicie’s Exotic Cabaret, and Girls, Girls, Girls.
The venue was listed as closed by restaurant inspectors in May 2024, though it’s unclear whether that closure was meant to be temporary or permanent.
Permit Problems and Plans
Developer Brent Jackson, who operates similar clubs in West Virginia and South Carolina, has submitted an application to remodel the Roanoke property into a new venue called Lust Gentlemen’s Club.
His renovation plans include a $50,000 update — new carpet, tile, paint, roofing, fixtures, and a 144-square-foot stage with a drink rail.
City officials say work started before permits were approved, leading to a stop-work order and a review of whether the business requires a special exception permit. If so, it would trigger a public hearing and community input.
Ownership Dispute
Property records list Robert Harbour, a Florida eye surgeon originally from Roanoke, as the property owner. Representatives for Harbour say he has no connection to Jackson and did not authorize the renovations or permit application.
Despite this, Jackson identified himself as Harbour’s agent on city paperwork, creating confusion over who has the right to move forward with the project.
Community and Zoning Concerns
If reopened, Lust Gentlemen’s Club would be the first adult club in the Roanoke area in years.
Roanoke zoning law requires such venues to be at least 500 feet from schools, churches, parks, daycares, and homes, and Virginia law prohibits full nudity in adult entertainment establishments.
Residents and nearby businesses are already voicing concern about the club’s possible return, saying it could affect the area’s reputation and development goals outlined in Roanoke’s 2040 Comprehensive Plan.
Legal and Licensing Context
The previous operators of the Franklin Road club faced multiple issues over the years — from exposure violations in the 1990s to pay disputes in 2014.
State records show that Southwest Virginia Investments Inc., the company managing the Franklin Road address, still holds a valid alcohol license through 2026. The company’s president, Lynn Perkins, is Jackson’s wife.
Jackson and Perkins were previously involved in a $1.1 million settlement in West Virginia following a fatal drunk-driving crash involving a customer who had been drinking at their club there.
What Happens Next
For now, city officials continue to review the permit application and determine whether the proposed club aligns with Roanoke’s zoning laws.
The project remains on hold, but its potential reopening has already sparked debate over whether an adult club fits into the community’s vision for the city’s future.
Places like these attract people who commit crimes and are involved in criminal activities.
I personally don’t feel it will help our community opening a club. They say nothing good happens after midnight!
Also something else could occupy that space. Open some organizations that will help our community or youth.
Nothing good happens after midnight…. comment was posted at 1:04 am