Saturday night fever could be coming to Bicester with plans for its first nightclub.

A derelict site on Sheep Street is being targeted for the up-market nightspot, which would open on a members-only basis for about 300 clubbers.

The ambitious plan has been submitted to Cherwell District Council by Andy Ng, owner of the Yin Hong Chinese restaurant, which is next-door to the 4,000 sq ft site.

He also wants to build a fashionable clothes shop as part of the project, which he believes will cost about £400,000.

Mr Ng failed with a similar application last year due to problems with design and parking. But he has now received backing from town councillors.

He said: "We are looking to cater for people who go to pubs in Bicester. The town has no entertainment later at night for people aged 18 and over.

"It gives people a choice and lets them stay in Bicester to spend their money rather than having to go to Banbury or Milton Keynes.

"The site is just an empty hole and the council is keen to fill the gap. We have put the application in and are just waiting to see if we can get the approval."

The club would have a dancefloor with overlooking balcony, bars and a dining area. The strict dress code would mean men having to wear a tie and jacket and entertainment would include Sixties and Seventies nights.

At Bicester Town Council's planning committee meeting on Monday night, Cllr Les Sibley voiced councillors' support for the plan.

He said: "This application will provide a much needed leisure and entertainment facility for the people of the town and the surrounding area. It will utilise a previously disused and run-down prime town centre site.

"I understand that the application is for an upmarket night-club where admission will be strictly controlled, with high standards of health and safety.

"The aim is to allow the people of this town to enjoy and evening out in a safe environment."

Cherwell's south area planning sub-committee will decide whether to grant planning permission on December 3.

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