Protest in Hernals: Residents defend themselves against dominatrix studio plans!

Protest in Hernals: Residents defend themselves against dominatrix studio plans!

A hotly debated project is underway at Beheimgasse 74 in Vienna-Hernals: a former baby swimming pool is to be converted into a “high-class dominatrix studio”. The owner, Fabian Kubelka from the Kubelka Group, sees great potential in this project. The residents, on the other hand, are anything but enthusiastic. For them, such a restaurant could have a negative impact on their quiet street, which is mostly inhabited by young families. Since the renovation became known, concerned residents have launched an online petition that has already collected almost 300 votes to protest against the project meinkreis.at reported.

In this context, the building police (MA 37) sent a letter of notification to the residents. It refers to an application for a building permit that was received in May. The same office has stated that from a building law perspective there are no obstacles that would stand in the way of the conversion. District leader Peter Jagsch (SPÖ) understands the residents' concerns, but sees no legal means to stop the project. It is clear to Kubelka that his dominatrix studio does not offer classic brothel services. He attaches great importance to discretion and seriousness, and the appointments should only take place by appointment anyway.

History of prostitution in Vienna

But why are there so many discussions about prostitution in Vienna? Prostitution is often referred to as the oldest industry in the world. The fact is that Vienna is considered a pioneer in this area. In the early Middle Ages, prostitution was widespread, especially in women's houses, which were monitored by brothel mothers. The supervision of brothels was also regulated by the city authorities in order to ensure a controlled process warda.at shows.

In the 19th century, the regulation principle was introduced, which tolerated prostitution and placed it under state control. An example of the regular monitoring of prostitutes is the introduction of health books in 1873. Prostitution in Austria has been regulated by law since then, although in recent years there have been repeated debates about the best practices and rights of sex workers, as well as on wikipedia.de is discussed in detail.

With a current number of around 2,660 registered prostitutes in Vienna, it shows that the topic is still very relevant today. Prostitution in residential areas has been strictly regulated since November 1, 2021; special “permission zones” were created to regulate these services. This approach helps to minimize disruption in residential areas and ensure the safety of sex workers.

While the discussion about the dominatrix studio in Hernals continues to rage, residents will have to prepare for an exciting time. One can only hope that both the concerns of residents and the economic interests of the investor receive the attention they deserve.