A POPULAR town centre soft play centre has suddenly closed its doors after failing to pay off rent arrears.

Bonkers Play Area, located in The Brunel, initially told customers on Monday that it wouldn’t be able to open due to “an unexpected issue” and that it would be open as normal on Tuesday.

But despite promises to open in the following days on their Facebook page, the centre’s doors still remain closed today.

The sudden closure has outraged a number of parents – especially as many had pre-booked birthday parties at the centre.

Those affected have been told to contact the team in order to get a full refund.

One parent, who didn’t wish to be named, said: “I’m quite concerned because no one has told us why it has closed and no one is answering the phone or anything.

“It was so strange to see it had closed because I go there quite a lot and it is always busy.

“Lots of people are complaining about it on Facebook and parents are asking what it is all about because when you don’t know you think the worst.”

Bonkers Play Area first opened its doors in The Brunel last September, much to the delight of parents in the town.

And while many have commented on how busy the place is, James Raspin, head of asset management for FI Real Estate Management, who manage the units at The Brunel, said to the Adver: “I can confirm that Bonkers Play Area is closed and there’s a possibility they may remain closed for the foreseeable future.

“The Brunel have been working with the owners of Bonkers for a number of months to find a solution to the rent arrears and taking back the unit has come about due to being unable to resolve matters.

“All enquiries about bookings for the crèche and play area should be made directly to Bonkers, via their Facebook page: email: info@bonkersplay.co.uk.”

On Thursday, a post from the Bonkers Play Area team said: “We appreciate everyone's patience at this time. We hope to be able to reopen soon. We can't comment on any of the reasons at the moment due to confidentiality. We will update when we have more information to pass on.

“We as a family, running an independent business, are very upset about what is going on, and appreciate all of the positive comments, saying their children love Bonkers.

“We look forward to seeing all of you soon.”