AN UPMARKET restaurant company has started work on the York building it plans to move into.

The Ivy Collection has confirmed it plans to open in York in November, and workmen have now started the project to transform the old Blacks shop in St Helen’s Square into a bar and restaurant.

Hoardings have gone up around the building, and the company has started to look for staff.

The new restaurant’s general manager Jon Pinner said: “We’re extremely excited to bring The Ivy Collection to York. Chosen for its heritage, fantastic local community and vibrant tourist industry, it is the perfect location for us.

“We will soon be recruiting to fill more than 100 jobs in the local area, and look forward to opening our doors in York in late November.”

A company spokesman said the St Helen’s Square premises had been selected to join The Ivy Collection’s “handful” of other venues outside London.

“York was handpicked due to its vibrant dining culture and thriving tourist trade. Located next to York’s famous Mansion House, home to the Lord Mayor of York, The Ivy St Helen’s Square will be a refreshing addition to York’s already exciting food and drink scene.”

The Ivy will join the new Carluccio’s northern flagship site in St Helen’s Square, which opened its doors in April after a major refurbishment of the old Terry’s chocolate shop.

The new restaurant will offer all-day dining and will have space for 120 guests, as well as 10 at the brasserie’s bar, and an additional 26 on the terrace.

“With a bar, terrace and interiors designed by Martin Brudnizki Design Studio, the restaurant will have a quintessentially British feel and display art representing its York location,” a spokesman added.

Menus will include including breakfast, elevenses, weekend brunch, lunch, afternoon tea, light snacks and dinner, and an extensive wine list and cocktail menu.