AN INVESTIGATION has been launched into an unlicensed massage parlour which neighbours claim is being used as a brothel.

Southend Council has launched the probe into the Ab Fab massage service in London Road, Westcliff.

People living near the flat are getting fed up with a stream of men calling at the property and causing disturbances.

A resident, who asked not to be named, said: “There are at least two girls working daily and a maid/receptionist.

The girls all offer sexual services.

They work from 10am until late and this means a constant stream of men lurking around the area looking for sex.

“We have witnessed men knocking on the wrong door. This is unacceptable and antisocial behaviour.”

The resident added: “The 1956 Sexual Offences Act bans running a brothel and it’s against the law to loiter or solicit sex on the street.

“These are just a few of the offences being committed on a daily basis from these premises.

“We are asking the council and police to take urgent action.”

Massage establishments are required to be licensed by the council and where such establishments are found, or suspected, to be providing services other than those authorised by the licence, licensing officers work closely with the police in any investigation and can take action if necessary.

Ian Gilbert, Southend councillor responsible for community development, said: “We are grateful for local residents bringing this allegation to our attention.

“There are clear laws in place regarding the running of brothels which are enforced by the police and all relevant officers within the council will support the police in any investigation and action.”

On its website, Ab Fab, which operates above an empty shop, says: “Come along and be pampered, make your fantasies become reality. All our ladies are English mature lovelies with ages ranging from 34 to naughty 40s.”

A woman who wouldn’t give her name, but claimed to be the owner of the massage parlour, said: “I know all my neighbours very well and have been to their weddings. I have had threatening calls.

“Ab Fab is licensed with the council as a massage parlour. I spoke to someone at the council nine years ago and I pay my taxes. It’s all above board and I have very nice, regular gentlemen.”

Essex Police were unable to comment.