THE flagship restaurant that brought five-star dining to East Lancashire is being converted into two homes.

Trustees of Heathcotes Pension Scheme have been given permission to reconfigure the site occupied by The Longridge Restaurant, in Higher Road in the town.

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Chef Paul Heathcote opened his first restaurant at the age of 29 in 1990 and it gained a Michelin star in 1992.

In 1994 it became the North’s first holder of two Michelin stars, an accolade the restaurant retained for four consecutive years as Paul also scooped AA rosettes, Catey awards and the coveted Egon Ronay Chef of the Year.

In its day the eaterie brought the growing celebrity chef and foodie culture to the region for the first time.

Heathcote also wrote two books – including Rhubarb and Black Pudding – and was awarded an MBE for services to hospitality in 2009 as his name being famous across the globe.

But in 2012 he put the Longridge Restaurant and Cookery School up for sale – and now has just two – Heathcotes Brasserie and the Olive Press at Winckley Square in Preston – as well as his catering company Heathcotes Outside.

Now the restaurant’s existing properties will be extended and converted into two one-bed flats and three two-bed houses.

The three cottages, which date from 1808 and were named the Quarry Terrace, were converted into the Quarryman’s Arms in the 19th century, which closed in 1871.

Councillor Ken Hind, who sits on Ribble Valley Council, said he was looking forwards, not backwards.

He said: “We have moved on. We have to look at what we have got in terms of restaurants and wine bars and so forth.

“Longridge has improved over the past few years and we now have some excellent restaurants.

“We are grateful for Mr Heathcote for putting us on the culinary map and we would have liked him to stay, but we still have wonderful places to eat.”

In a document setting out the council’s decision, a spokesman said: “The proposal is considered to be acceptable with regards to its effects upon the appearance and character of the building itself and the wider locality.

“The application is also considered to be acceptable with regards to the amenities of nearby residents and highway safety.

“Overall, therefore, I can see no objections to this proposed development subject to appropriate conditions; and I therefore recommend accordingly.”