Former well-known Northampton pub to be turned into bingo hall and flats

Plans have been approved to turn a former popular pub in Northampton into a bingo hall and 13 flats.

According to planning papers submitted by the applicant Star MK Ltd, the former The Moon on the Square, in Market Square, will be converted into a bingo hall and adult gaming centre on the ground floor, with the mezzanine first floor used for staff facilities.

In a separate application for the same building, West Northamptonshire Council has also approved plans to allow 13 flats to be built at the rear of the site and on on the upper floors, which used to be offices.

According to the planning papers, an additional fifth floor will be created for the flats, the rear conservatory will be demolished, an existing two storey block will be retained and a new two storey extension will be built at the rear.

West Northamptonshire Council said in the planning papers: "The [flats] development supports the viability and vitality of the town centre.

"The [bingo hall] development would bring a long term vacant unit back into use."

The Moon on the Square closed in 2017 to the shock of many Northampton residents, who remember it for its huge floorspace, conservatory and long trip up the stairs just to use the toilets.

The existing building was designed in the 1970’s by Percy Thomas Partners Architects.

The neighbouring former nightclub Balestra is currently being converted into 69 student studio flats while the ground floor is being converted into a World Buffet restaurant.