A NATIONAL coffee shop chain is brewing up plans to open a third branch in Chester.
Caffè Nero has submitted plans to Cheshire West and Chester Council for finishing touches to a cafe being built at the former Brannigans nightclub site, which last month was branded an ugly, derelict eyesore by Chester Civic Trust.
But ongoing work at the site is looking to change all that, with the coffee chain looking to open its doors by next Saturday, February 23.
The new shop is expected to create about 10 jobs.
Plans available on the CWaC website show the new Caffè Nero would include seating for about 50 customers and a range of artwork on the interior walls.
A new fire exit would also be installed at the Love Street side of the new shop, while there is an application for illuminated signage at the shop’s front.
The development comes as nearby store Primark has taken up the remainder of the former nightclub’s space, as part of the fashion retail chain’s expansion and refurbishment plans.
It would be the third Caffè Nero coffee shop in Chester, joining existing branches on Eastgate Street and Bridge Street.
A Caffè Nero spokesperson said: “Caffè Nero is excited to be opening soon in the premises previously occupied by Brannigans on Foregate Street.
“The building as was has been divided up into a couple of units and Caffè Nero will be taking just one section of the building.
“The Primark refurbishment and/or expansion is not part of the Caffè Nero opening.
“The fit out for the new store is taking place at the moment and we hope to open on or around February 23.
“In terms of jobs, each new store creates roughly 10 new jobs.”
Brannigans opened in the former ABC cinema building in 1995 and the bar was refurbished in 1998 and 2005.
It closed its doors for the final time three years ago this month, having been popular with students, and the building had been empty ever since.
