DROITWICH SPA could be set to get a new night spot after a licensing application was put forward for the historic building at 31 High Street.
The proposal is for a ‘luxury tapas bar’ with plans to open – and serve alcohol – between 11am and 3am.
The two men behind the business venture – Josef Millard and Angelo Petritaj – believe it would be perfect for the town.
Mr Petritaj said: “All the youth travel to Worcester to go for a drink, and we want to bring the economy back into Droitwich – not away.
“I am thinking about how we can grow the town.”
As well as the food, the pair said the venue would have a dance floor and live music in the evenings.
If the application goes ahead, this would be the first venue currently in Droitwich to sell alcohol up until 3am.
But there has been some opposition to the plans, including to the proposed opening and alcohol times.
The application has been brought to the attention of West Mercia Police, which is currently liaising with Mr Millard and Mr Petritaj.
In a statement, West Mercia Police’s licensing team said negotiations were ongoing and it was unable to comment further at this time.
A nearby business owner – Sue Allen of Flowers and Elegance – has also expressed concerns about the new venue, telling the Standard she feared it could bring more unruly and anti-social behaviour to the High Street, as a nightclub in a neighbouring town had done.
She said: “Our concern is A, there’s going to be loads of noise and B, shops in the lane had a brick through at the window already.”
Dating back to the 1400s, the historic 31 High Street is one of Droitwich’s oldest buildings and it has been restored to its former glory over the past few years.
Extensive work was carried out on the timber frame building which has 18 original tiles within, which had been made by the building’s sponsors during its restoration.
Worcestershire Regulatory Services is currently holding a consultation on the 3am licence proposal and residents have until September 7 to put forward their views.
People can email [email protected] to have their say.
Another Droitwich Company, Diamond Cafe Bar, is also looking to increase its existing premises licence to serve alcohol until 2am every day.
• WHAT do you think? Do you think Droitwich’s nightlife needs to be improved? Would you like to see venues which are open until 2am or 3am? Email [email protected] with your views.
