Independent Member for Alfred Cove Dr Janet Woollard has been informed by community members that there could be a brothel operating within a residential area in the City of Melville.

"I have been contacted by constituents who have observed unusual activity which have led them to suspect a brothel is in operation near their homes," said Dr Woollard.

"For example, there have been observations of an unusually high number of vehicles parked in the area, men being dropped off in taxis to the location and scantily-clad men seen heading to their parked cars retrieving their wallets and returning to the premises.

"Constituents are concerned that a brothel in an area close to schools and childcare centres would affect the amenity of the area and raise issues of safety to children and families."

Dr Woollard said she has informed the City of Melville about the constituents’ concerns and requested for the matter to be investigated.

"The City of Melville has policies that act to prevent the establishment of a brothel in a residential area.

"The Sexual Services Business Policy was specifically developed to preclude the operation of such businesses within the city’s residential area.

"I hope the City will apply the policy in this situation and if a brothel is operating within the said premises, the City will move to remove it on the basis that it is creating a nuisance to residents."

Dr Woollard said she has also informed the police about the possible brothel.

City of Melville Attadale-Bicton Ward Councillor June Barton OAM said, "It is unacceptable to have brothels in residential areas."