Businessman behind Shrub looking to open new Chester bar in empty unit
The former Geek Retreat has been empty for almost 6 months
The Geek Retreat opened in April 2022, but closed in February of this year(Image: Google)
The man behind popular vegan eatery Shrub are hoping to open a new bar in an empty Chester unit. Licensing and planning applications have been submitted for the former Geek Retreat on Watergate Street, which closed its doors in late January this year.
The establishment, part of a national chain, opened in April 2022. The application seeks permission to convert the vacant unit, formerly a betting office, into a bar with food provision.
The planning application has been submitted by local businessman Calum Adams, who opened popular vegan restaurant Shrub on the nearby Eastgate Row in 2020. The licensing applicant is TBC Bars Ltd, of which Mr Adams is a director.
In the licensing application, it is stated that the establishment, 'trading name TBC', will be a "higher end drinking establishment also serving food". Proposed opening hours are 11am to 12am Monday to Thursday, with a 30-minute drinking up window and vacate separately and orderly; and 11am to 1am Friday and Saturday, also with the 30-minute drinking-up window.
Food and drink will be sold via table service primarily with limited vertical drinking space to the rear of the venue. In the licensing application, a light food offering is proposed. will be available during all hours of operation and service.
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