A new bar could replace the former Covino restaurant on Northgate Street.

Barron Pubco Ltd has submitted a premises licence application to Cheshire West and Chester Council to open 'Sibin Social' at 118 Northgate Street.

Plans for the unit include a new bar and restaurant with opening hours listed as 9am to 1.30am from Monday to Sunday.

Changes to alcohol, music and opening hours are outlined in the application, alongside adding live music and a rear smoking shelter.

The applicant also seeks permission to remove a seating and standing restriction

The unit was previously home to Covino, a popular Chester restaurant and wine bar, which closed earlier this year after a nearly a decade in the city.

Due to celebrate its 10th anniversary at the time of its closure, the restaurant issued a statement which attributed the last two Labour budgets as its "cause of death".

"In trying to do the right thing they've gone after completely the wrong people, something I'll never forget or forgive them for," the post said.

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"On a more positive note, I've made some exceptional relationships over the last decade with guests, staff and suppliers who I now consider great friends.

"Thank you to everyone who has supported us throughout this journey. Your custom really did go towards things like my children's football boots, something big business can't tell you, so keep supporting your local independents!

"I'm going to spend some time licking my wounds, filing for bankruptcy, and most importantly, catching up on lost time with my family - who have come second to the restaurants far too often over the last 10 years.

"I'll see you all again soon once I've figured out what's next. Best of luck to everyone who's battling their way through these testing times."

You can find the full licensing application here.