A £1.5million project to turn Southall Manor House into a centre of excellence for the hospitality industry, and a high-end restaurant, is well under way. You can view a gallery of some progress pictures at the top of this story.

The historic manor house is being refurbished and extended and will have the addition of a purpose-built kitchen and an impressive, glazed extension for event hire. And the east wing of the building will house an education and business hub, including conference spaces and meeting rooms.

It is due to reopen at the end of the year, when you will be able to book a meal and enjoy the restored building and gardens.

When it is up and running, Southall Manor House will become a top destination for students looking to train in all aspects of the hospitality and catering industry. Apprenticeship and training opportunities will be advertised nearer the time, too.

Ealing Council is leading the manor house project in partnership with Ealing, Hammersmith and West London’s College, with support from the Mayor of London. The council and college have set up a community interest company to run the enterprise as a not-for-profit business, meaning money it makes will be ploughed back into it rather than to shareholders or owners.

A disused toilet block out the front of the site has been converted into a cafe kiosk and will act as a ‘pop-up’ base for a succession of local businesses to showcase their products during the summer and autumn. When the manor house reopens it will then be run as a permanent cafe and information point.

Keep an eye on Ealing News Extra for more as the project develops.