THERE are new plans to build a Starbucks in Chester city centre.

The documents, submitted to Cheshire West and Chester Council at the end of last month, state that the coffee shop would replace the empty Paperchase store on Foregate Street.

Paperchase collapsed into administration in January 2023, with all of the brand’s stores closing by April.

Starbucks announced plans to open 100 new stores in the UK in March 2024, with Chester revealed as one of the first 19 locations which had been earmarked for the expansion.

The new store will feature space for approximately 54 customers, across café seating and perch benches.

The American brand is one of the most popular coffee shop chains in the world. Known for their hot and cold coffee drinks, iced tea, hot chocolate and hot and cold breakfast bakery and sandwich options, Starbucks has more than 32,000 locations across 80 countries.

Planning consultants Townscape, on behalf of Soul Coffee House West Ltd – who are responsible for Starbucks in the UK - say: “The ground floor will see a stripping back of all internal decorative elements from the previous user and a replacement to the wall linings and ceilings which are modern.

“There are no demolitions other than stripping out of services. New works include, new utility services, new kitchen/drinks preparation area and service counter, toilets provision, new wall and ceiling linings and a corporate branding/advertisements.

“Seating will be free standing. The ground floor works involves the greatest intervention with stud wall partitions forming the toilet provision.”

The plans are awaiting decision.