The boss of a chain of French restaurants says a new branch will open in one of Ilkley’s landmark buildings in June.

The Le Bistrot Pierre group will also unveil a sister business in the same building with a pub named the Crescent Inn, which will also include 11 guest rooms.

Work has been going on at the old Crescent Hotel on the corner of Brook Street and Leeds Road since it closed last year when its previous owners, Liverpool-based pub group Cains, went into administration.

The building was bought by Le Bistrot Pierre who unveiled their plans last year.

Robert Beacham, co-owner of Le Bistrot Pierre, said: “We’re busily preparing to open our new 90 cover bistrot in the beautiful town of Ilkley and work is currently under way to bring the French sparkle of Le Bistrot Pierre to our new home.

“We’re hoping to open our doors to the public in June, and we’re looking forward to sharing our love of French food with local residents.”

There are currently nine branches of Le Bistrot Pierre across the country, including one which recently opened in Harrogate.

The Crescent Inn will be the first time the company has moved into the pub and hotel business.

The upper floor of the building is being converted into apartments.