A MUSIC shop in Chester is to be turned into a Parisian-style delicatessen and licensed café under plans lodged with the council.

Picnic (Chester) Ltd has applied for a change of use under planning law for number 102 Northgate Street, currently occupied by Back Alley Music.

In a letter to Cheshire West and Chester Council, applicant Matthew Morgan said he planned to create a “European inspired delicatessen and café with provision to open into the evening for a relaxed dining setting”.

He added: “The proposal aims to bring a modern take on the delicatessen environment. This interior will be clean and the design is aiming to replicate a Parisian bistro.

“The premise is located on Northgate Street next to Storyhouse Theatre and the further proposed leisure development. The proposal will extend the choice alongside the existing provision already established in the area.”

Named ‘Picnic’, it will open from 7am until 10.30pm or 11pm and offer a small, bespoke menu with a “heavy focus on health and wellbeing” including vegetarian and vegan options.

In his letter, Mr Morgan continued: “The delicatessen will feature a small selection of organic and select wines, a small selection of spirits and craft beers. The range will strongly feature local and British products and suppliers where possible.

“This small selection of alcohol is to allow people a refined and mature evening café atmosphere, to allow enjoyment of a selection of meat, cheeses and accompaniments. A table licence will be sought to allow for this.”

The application will be considered by the council’s planning team, and possibly its planning committee, in due course.