Plans for a new establishment in Chester city centre show promising progress.
- Former Co-operative Bank premises on Northgate Street to become a wine bar and coffee shop.
- Popcorn Hospitality Ltd secures planning permission for Planaterra, the upcoming venue.
- Public consultation is open until October 28 regarding a premises licence application.
- New venue expected to bolster Chester’s evening economy and attract more visitors.
Plans are advancing swiftly to transform the former Co-operative Bank site on Northgate Street, Chester, into a promising new venue. Popcorn Hospitality Ltd has received the necessary planning permission to convert the site into a wine bar and coffee shop named Planaterra. This step marks a significant development in Chester’s city centre, boosting its hospitality landscape.
The premises licence application submitted to Cheshire West and Chester Council outlines Planaterra’s offerings, which combine a wine bar and coffee shop serving both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, along with artisanal food. The venue is designed to host patrons both inside and in an outdoor al fresco area, offering a dynamic setting for visitors.
Joseph Dunn, operations manager at Popcorn, is appointed as the licensee of Planaterra. According to the application, the venue will showcase a mixture of low and high seating, a bar crafted from repurposed antique cabinetry, and outdoor coffee tables. A small stage for acoustic performances adds to the venue’s vibrant atmosphere, making it a unique draw for locals and tourists alike.
Planned operating hours for Planaterra are set to be from 9am to 12.30am, throughout the week, with alcohol sales permitted from 10am to midnight. These extended hours aim to support Chester’s evening economy by creating a lively and safe environment that encourages extended visits to the area.
The public consultation regarding the premises licence concludes on 28th October, as reported by Cheshire Live. The application emphasises that the transformation involves no physical alterations to the Grade II listed building, focusing primarily on change of use. Council case officer, Kara Johnston, supports the initiative, noting the site’s potential to energise the local economy.
The redevelopment of the former bank into Planaterra signifies a positive shift for Chester’s city centre, enhancing its economic and social vibrancy.
