Restaurant proposed for grade II-listed former post office

A grade II-listed former post office in York could be converted for use as a restaurant if newly submitted plans get the green light.

WYG, on behalf of Mitchells and Butlers, has lodged plans with City of York Council for the former post office building on Lendal.

The building was constructed in 1884 and operated as a post office until its closure earlier this year.

Full planning permission is sought for restaurant use on the ground floor and basement of the building, as well as new signage. The proposed venue would operate as a Miller & Carter Steakhouse. 

The eatery would be located in the main public area, with 156 restaurant covers and a further 22 ancillary bar covers.

A £1.5m investment would be made in the refurbishment and fit-out phase. Once operational, the restaurant is expected to support about 55 jobs.

A planning statement submitted as part of the application said the scheme represents a “significant investment in the grade II-listed building to bring the ground floor and basement back into a viable use “.

A war memorial dedicated to employees of the General Post Office is currently located in the lobby area. The applicant has indicated it is willing to retain this but it is understood that the Post Office is working with Royal Mail to identify an appropriate place to relocate it.

The offices on the upper floors of the building would be unaffected by the proposed development.