A former hair salon is set for dramatic new role.
The one-time Moda Hairdressers on the Stonebow looks set to be transformed into a culture café – complete with live performances alongside the food and drink.
“Our licensed café-theatre offers small arts and culture performances to York residents, with a counter for the serving of food, coffee and cocktails,” says a licensing application by Samhera Waseem, director of new pub and bar business Cat In The Wall Ltd.
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The café would operate on the 865 sq ft ground floor of the 1960s building opposite Stonebow House.
Among its cultural offerings would be plays, live music, dance, and films screened “in the background when no live entertainment is available”.
It would open from 8am to midnight every day.
Miss Waseem, who has previously worked at both The Grand Hotel, York, and the National Railway Museum, writes: “Having lived and worked in York for 12 years, I have a sincere interest in developing a high quality and well managed arts and culture venue within a safe and attractive environment.
“As a resident, I intend for my business to improve the quality of life in the area in which I live, and actively discourage alcohol related crime, disturbance and anti-social behaviour.
“As a licensed cafe providing arts and culture performance, our business brings greater choice to residents about where, when and how they spend their leisure time.
“Although we are a small venue, our offer promotes development of a rich culture of live music, dance and theatre in our area.
“As an unusual yet high-quality licensed premises, we hope to appeal to a broad spectrum of people in a safe and accessible manner. Families are welcome during the day, providing a balanced environment and encouraging responsible consumption of alcohol.”
The ambience of the venue would change depending on the time of day.
“As a café, our venue welcomes families during the day,” the application states.
“However, as we offer alcoholic beverages alongside our arts and culture performances, we do not admit children past 6pm. This may mitigate the risk of children overhearing any strong language as our evening offer phases in.”
Anyone wanting to respond to the licensing application has until 11 August.