HOTEL developers behind the aparthotel scheme at the Barbican want to open a convenience store in the complex.

Builders have been at work on the site since January last year, and now a planning permission amendment has emerged showing that the developers want to change the use of part of the ground floor.

They are applying for permission to change one of the proposed two cafe units into a retail space, so guests can buy food to be prepared in their apartments close by.

Dublin-based Staycity will operate the new venue, and have said they aim to provide a mid-market, cost effective and user-friendly alternative to standard hotel rooms in popular European cities, particularly appealing to families and small groups travelling together.