Plans to transform the former Co-operative Bank building in Chester into a wine bar and coffee shop are moving forward with promising developments.
- Popcorn Hospitality Ltd has secured planning permission to repurpose the closed bank into a vibrant venue.
- A premises license application suggests the new location will be named Planaterra, managed by Joseph Dunn.
- The proposed establishment will offer artisanal foods and drinks, featuring a unique setting with a mix of seating and a small stage.
- The public consultation period for these proposals will conclude by the end of October.
Plans are advancing for the transformation of a former Co-operative Bank building in Chester’s city center into a new wine bar and coffee shop. The venue, located on Northgate Street, is set to revive the space that has been closed since November 2020, breathing new life into this historic area.
Popcorn Hospitality Ltd, known for its existing establishment in the city, has obtained necessary planning permissions to proceed with the project. This marks a significant step in the revitalization of the site, which holds historical value as a Grade II listed building. With this permission, the company seeks to balance preserving the building’s character while introducing a modern, dynamic venue.
An application for a premises license has been submitted to the Cheshire West and Chester Council, revealing the intended name for the new venue: Planaterra. Joseph Dunn, the operations manager at Popcorn, is poised to take on the role of the licensee. This development highlights strategic management under familiar leadership within Chester’s hospitality scene.
Described in the application, the future establishment will consist of a ground floor wine bar and coffee shop. Offerings include high-quality artisanal food and beverages, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. The venue will feature a mixture of seating arrangements, including both low and high setups, and a bar crafted from repurposed antique cabinetry. Additionally, an outdoor area will provide coffee tables and accommodate a small stage for acoustic performances, enhancing the cultural vibrancy of the location.
The proposed operational hours span from 9 AM to 12:30 AM daily, with alcohol sales permitted from 10 AM to midnight. Such extended hours aim to contribute to a robust evening economy, ensuring increased foot traffic and an inviting atmosphere in Chester’s city center. Cheshire Live reports that the public consultation period regarding these proposals is set to close on October 28. This timeline invites community input and further engages stakeholders in the development process.
Notably, the application strategically excludes any current building alterations, indicating a focus solely on the change of use at this juncture. This decision reflects an approach to minimize initial interventions while awaiting final approval. Support from council case officer Kara Johnston further cements the project’s alignment with local economic strategies, emphasizing the importance of a bustling evening economy in safe and attractive urban environments.
As efforts solidify, Chester anticipates a revitalized city center with Planaterra’s development.
