A popular Derby restaurant could expand after its owner said there was increasing demand from customers for large private functions.

Bosses of Nicco Restaurant and Bar have submitted plans for an extension as it plans to increase capacity and cater for special events.

They say the Wheelwright Way restaurant had become so popular that it currently can’t cater for all the demand requested – and has now started to open ‘after hours’ on Saturdays.

The successful Indian restaurant at Pride Park is just a few minutes’ walk from Pride Park Stadium – making it a popular venue on Derby County match days.

It opened several years ago following the closure of the Chiquito restaurant.

Nicco Restaurant and Bar’s owner Sanj Kumar has requested planning permission from Derby City Council for a side extension providing additional internal dining and function space.

The function space could be used for weddings, birthday events, other celebratory events and group bookings.

Mr Kumar said: “We are getting so many people asking for private venue space. They want party bookings for around 60-80 people. 

“We are turning a lot (of booking interest) away because we can’t cater for everyone.

“The extension will have its own bar and mini kitchen and own sound system. It will be the group’s own secure space.

“When not used as a function room, it can be used as an additional bar and more space where our service can be quicker.”

A new dedicated staff parking area is also proposed “which will improve site management by separating staff and service movements from customer areas”. 

Mr Kumar added its Pride Park location makes the restaurant busy in the day time as well as evenings. He also said there was a new shift to offer an after-hours event on Saturday nights.

A planning statement to the council reads:  “As the business has grown, demand for private event bookings has increased significantly, prompting the need for a dedicated function space.”

It later adds: “The proposal therefore represents a sustainable and appropriate enhancement to the existing restaurant and will contribute positively to the leisure and hospitality offer within Derby.”

Planning documents state the pavement along Wheelwright Way will remain unaffected, with a clear separation maintained between the footpath and the proposed extension. 

A final decision on the extension plans is likely to be made by council planning bosses in the coming months.