Concerns raised over 'The Balkan' nightclub's bid to serve alcohol until 3.30am in Northampton

The Balkan Club, located at the former Far Cotton Working Men’s Club on Main Road in Far Cotton, has applied to West Northamptonshire Council to vary its premises licence.

Balkan Club Ltd's application seeks permission for alcohol sales until 3.30am on Fridays and Saturdays.

On Sundays, alcohol could be sold between 10am and midnight.

The club is also seeking permission to provide late-night refreshments until midnight from Sunday to Thursday, and until 4am on Fridays and Saturdays.

Recorded music would also be permitted until midnight from Sunday to Thursday and until 4am on Fridays and Saturdays.

The application includes a request to extend licensable activities on specified special days.

Residents and other interested parties have until October 29, 2026, to submit representations to West Northamptonshire Council. Comments can be emailed to [email protected]

Independent councillor Julie Davenport has warned the plans could lead to increased antisocial behaviour, noise and parking problems in the surrounding neighbourhood, and is urging residents to have their say before the October 29 deadline.

Cllr Davenport, who represents Delapre and Rushmere, said: “Residents deserve to have their voices heard on licensing applications, so I’m very pleased that residents will have that opportunity on this occasion.

“I would encourage everyone with concerns about the proposed extended hours to submit their views to the Licensing Committee. I will be submitting my own representation.

“My concern is that extending the hours for serving alcohol could lead to increased antisocial behaviour, noise, shouting, car doors slamming and inconsiderate parking. This is already a particular issue late at night, as the Stagecoach bus depot is on the same road and buses need clear access.

“The application will go before the Licensing Committee, giving residents the opportunity to have their concerns heard and considered. Please make your voice count.”

The latest application follows a series of licensing issues surrounding the venue since it opened earlier this summer.

In July, the Chronicle & Echo reported that The Balkan Club had opened at the former Far Cotton Working Men's Club premises despite being advised by West Northamptonshire Council not to proceed with an event without the necessary Temporary Event Notice (TEN).

Cllr Davenport had previously raised concerns about the club's proximity to homes and community facilities, including a place of worship and NHS Outreach services.

She said residents were worried the venue could operate as a nightclub, leading to increased noise, worsening parking problems and potentially contributing to antisocial behaviour.

In August, the club withdrew an application to open until 5am on Fridays and Saturdays. However, the club became the holder of an existing premises licence held by Far Cotton Working Men’s Club, which allows it to open until 2.30am on Fridays and Saturdays, with alcohol sales permitted until 2am.