A nightclub reportedly opened in a Northampton neighbourhood over the weekend despite being told not to by the Reform-led West Northamptonshire Council.

‘The Balkan’ Club opened at the former Far Cotton Working Men's Club on Main Road on Saturday night, with residents reporting the venue was open into the early hours.

Councillor Julie Davenport, who represents the Delapre and Rushmere ward, said the club was open on Friday and Saturday with seemingly no licence in place.

"I’ve had complaints. The application will go before the planning committee I’m told, so residents will have their say. Residents want to know how they can open,” Councillor Davenport said.

'The Balkan' nightclub opened in Far Cotton last weekend without a licence and despite being told not to by the council

placeholder image — 'The Balkan' nightclub opened in Far Cotton last weekend without a licence and despite being told not to by the council

An email, seen by the Chronicle & Echo and sent to Councillor Davenport by West Northamptonshire Council, said the Balkan Club had been advised it needed a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) for the Friday and Saturday night events but did not submit one.

The email said: “The Balkan Club were advised that they needed a TEN for Saturday nights event but didn't submit one. They were told not to go ahead with the event without one and as far as we are aware they heeded that advice.

“We have received several objections to their premises licence application so this will go before the licensing sub committee at some point in August.”

A West Northamptonshire Council spokesperson added: "West Northamptonshire Council can confirm we have now received a complaint in relation to the premises. We are unable to comment further at this time."Councillor Davenport previously said: "Although the premises are located on the edge of an industrial estate, they are directly adjacent to a residential area, a place of worship, and NHS Outreach services.

"Residents' main concerns are that the venue could operate as a nightclub, leading to increased noise, worsening the already significant parking problems in the area, and potentially contributing to anti-social behaviour. These are understandable concerns given the proximity of nearby homes and community facilities."

A licensing notice has recently been put up at the site confirming that an application has been submitted by The Balkan Club for permission to sell alcohol, provide entertainment and serve late-night refreshments at the site.

The notice states that the venue is seeking opening hours of Friday and Saturday from 9pm until 5am.

The application was registered with West Northamptonshire Council on June 26. Objections can be made to the council within 28 days.

Editor’s note:

This article has been amended. RCCG Royal Diadem Chapel has asked to make clear that it is not the owner or operator of The Balkan Club, nor does it own the section of the property in which the club is situated. The church, and the club, are two separate properties and entities that share the same premises.