South Oxfordshire District Council has sanctioned renovation plans for the celebrated establishment created by Raymond Blanc.

The two planning submissions for the two-star Michelin dining venue received endorsement from the local authority. The approval came through on Thursday, March 19, clearing the way for improvements at the acclaimed hotel and eatery this year.

The property in Great Milton, which opened under the renowned chef’s guidance in 1984, now operates under Belmond management and ranks among Britain’s most treasured dining destinations.

The venue began its temporary suspension on New Year’s Day and anticipates welcoming patrons again in summer 2027.

Adrian Duffield, the council’s planning chief, stated in correspondence that consent had been awarded as the proposed works would not adversely affect heritage features, local visual appeal, and aligned with planning policy requirements when combined with stipulated conditions.

Representing Blanc Restaurants Ltd, consultancy Lichfields described the initiative as essential to the company’s continued prosperity.

The modifications to the protected Grade II structure encompass updates to wall and flooring surfaces, elimination of roof windows, installation of a replacement entrance, removal of the current doorway, and creation of an additional rooftop access point.

Works will involve demolishing a portion of wall constructed over a century ago in January 1908. This section, forming part of the kitchen addition situated to the north of the main house, requires removal to accommodate the redesigned floor plan.

As the establishment ceased operations earlier this year, the 76-year-old Blanc posted an emotional communication on social media. He expressed gratitude to devoted patrons and companions who had backed the venue through the decades, recalling joyful celebrations including gatherings and nuptials that united people in marking life’s milestones. He assured followers this was not a permanent farewell but simply an until-we-meet-again, extending warm wishes for the new year.

Over its 41-year history, the establishment has continuously maintained its two Michelin stars, including for 2025. A communication issued by the venue on New Year’s Day noted that guests would be bid farewell as doors closed to enable an ambitious transformation, with reopening targeted for summer 2027, and sincere appreciation extended to all who had visited over the years, expressing how privileged they felt to have hosted visitors at the countryside estate.