City centre wine shop seeks retrospective permission for on-site bar

The owners of a wine shop in Wrexham city centre are seeking retrospective planning permission to open a bar on their premises.

Alticcio Wine Store on Henblas Street opened its doors in June 2023 and sells wines from all over the world.

The shop currently has approval from Wrexham Council to sell wine to be consumed away from the site.

Beata Wisniewska, one of two sisters who runs the independent business, has now applied to the local authority for retrospective backing to add a bar to serve wine to customers inside the premises.

Retrospective permission is usually sought when changes have been made to a property without permission from the council.

Consultants acting for the owners said it would help the business to boost its income, with snacks also on offer.

In a planning statement, they said: “The main focus of the business is selling wine for consumption off the premises, however allowing the consumption of food and drink on the premises will enhance the customer experience by letting them enjoy their drinks in a social setting.

“The shop can hold up to 18 people at a time. The store is a cosy place where people come to relax, chat, and unwind. It is always calm and quiet, with soft background music.

“Snacks like cheese, olives, pretzels, and crackers are served to accompany the drinks, but no hot food is served.

“This will encourage longer visits and increase revenue, while also promoting responsible alcohol consumption.

“Besides wine, the shop also sells other alcoholic drinks, which can also be consumed on the premises, including natural and organic beer and cider and local gins, vodka, rum, and liqueurs from suppliers in Brymbo and Oswestry.”

Comments are currently being invited on the application via the council’s website, with a decision expected at a later date.

By Liam Randall – BBC Local Democracy Reporter