KARAOKE is coming to Colchester.

Plans have been submitted to open a karaoke bar in the town’s High Street, on the first floor above a speciality Chinese supermarket.

Bofei Du, the applicant, an Essex University management graduate, opened the shop in August last year.

She said: “This would be the first I have run. They are very popular in China, every day during afternoons and evenings.

“The shop has been quite busy since we opened in August and I think there is an opportunity here.

“There are many of them in China and they make money and I think there is a chance to do it here.

“It will be a place for friends to meet and sing and I hope to get permission.”

Ms Du, 30, said she fell in love with Colchester after studying here. She said: “I love the feel of Colchester. The people are very nice and I feel safe.”

Under the plans, the bar would be open from 3pm until midnight each day of the week.

The Grade-II listed building was formerly used as a children’s shoe shop.

The only internal alterations planned are a staircase and a change to the room lay-out.

The applicant has agreed to add sound-proofing if required.

Colchester Council has the final say on the application and is set to make a decision by February 24.

Songs you might be singing at the bar:

  • Ferry across the Mersea, by Gerry and the Pacemakers
  • Castle ParkLife, by Blur
  • Wivenhoe or Without You, by U2
  • Stanway to Heaven, by Led Zeppelin