The largest nightclub in Comet country has closed – and will reopen as a children’s play centre.

The 2,000 capacity Liquid and Envy nightclub on Stevenage Leisure Park has shut its doors for good after leaseholders Luminar pulled out of the complex at the beginning of the month.

Leisure firm 360 Play has stepped in and signed a 15-year lease on the building, and has begun work on a �500,000 refit which the company hopes will be completed by Christmas.

The centre, which will accommodate 500 people at any time, will contain dodgems, a carousel, an ‘imagination street’ and a party area among its attractions.

Project manager Anne Basketfield said the company’s ethos is a “back to basics” approach to fun.

The decision by Luminar to pull out leaves two nightclubs on the park - Chicago’s and Glo. Park manager Warren Blanchfield said it would change the balance of the complex, but increase the variety on offer.

“The new centre is going to be for younger children. It’s going to be exciting for them. The market we are targeting is young children right the way up to adults.”