London restaurant operator makes major development to opening in Harrogate following building acquisition

A building located on 7-9 Parliament Street in Harrogate town centre is set to become the newest venue for London-based restaurant operator, The Ivy.

A private investor acquired the building in a deal led by partner and commercial property solicitor Lynne Webster of LCF Barber Titleys.

The Ivy is currently carrying out a full refurbishment of the historic building, to include a garden roof terrace and parking.

Once complete, the restaurant will create around 100 new jobs for the town.

Lynne said: “This is a really exciting proposition for Harrogate. The Ivy has been a fixture of London’s fine dining and social scene for 100 years this year, and I have been delighted to have been involved with its expansion into the North.

“The restaurant will no doubt appeal to both local people and tourists, and it is also set to create around 100 jobs in the town.”

The Covent Garden-based restaurant announced its expansion plans earlier this year to open in both Harrogate and York.

The Ivy has already entered the planning process for space on 2 St Helen’s Square in York. Subject to approval, a brasserie operating under The Ivy Collection banner will open in autumn 2017.

The Ivy Collection is a group of restaurants, brasseries and cafés, established in London and now growing regionally across the UK.

Lynne also advised on the purchase and lease of another building also on St Helen’s Square in the centre of York. The former bank building was leased to leading restaurant chain Carluccio’s as its flagship outlet.

Lynne added: “Both Harrogate and York have seen a real surge in popularity amongst leading restaurant operators of late, making them a great place for commercial property investment, and we have acted on a number of high-profile deals this year for several real estate investment organisations and private individuals keen to capitalise on this thriving market.”