A ‘MICRO-BAR’ could be set up inside an old graphics and print shop if plans get the green light.

The owner of 21 and 21C High Street in Maldon has applied for permission to change the use of the buildings.

It is hoped 21 High Street will be turned into a small “drinking establishment” and 21C will be a wine and beer store.

Point Graphics, who has been operationg for 25 years, will not be shutting down and will stay in its current location.

The design and access statement, from agents Clive Simpson Planning, said: “It is intended to use 21 High Street as a small drinking establishment and 21C will remain in use for the sale of wine and beer to the public.

“A small bar will be installed to the right of the entrance door from Silver Street, which will have a dumb waiter installed to transport bottles from the basement.

“A number of tables will then be arranged within the remainder of the space.

“There will be no hot food prepared or served on the site although the applicant may serve cold plates such as cheeses and charcuteries.” The developer is confident the new bar and off-licence will be key in helping build Maldon’s tourist trade and nightlife.

They added the plans would help play an “important role in catering for the needs of visitors to the district”.

The bar will continuously promote new brewers throughout the year by restocking with a new brand every time it sells out of a type of beer or wine.

A spokesman said: “Whilst there are already a number of pubs and other drinking establishments in the town centre, the applicant proposes to offer a range of craft beers on a rotational basis from independent brewers and a wine menu from sustainable growers only.

“When a keg of beer runs out it will be replaced by an entirely new brand or beer.

“Similarly, when six to 12 bottles of a particular wine have been sold, the wine will be replaced with a new brand.”

Some alterations to the building are also proposed as part of the plans, with a new wall to be put up to separate another property from the business.

There are no proposals for any external alterations, although if the application is approved there will be another application submitted for appropriate signage.

The application is available to view and comment on the Maldon District Council website.

To find out more about the application, search ref 19/00591/FUL on the council planning portal.