Caterer and Hotelkeeper – 29696

HERITAGE OFFER

ENGLISH Heritage is in talks with restaurant owners and hotel consultancies over plans to convert a grade I-listed mansion in Kent.

Danson Mansion, a derelict 18th century house set in 200 acres, is likely to be renovated by English Heritage within two years, at an estimated cost of £2.5m.

English Heritage plans to lease the building from its owner, Bexley Council, and then sub-let it to a commercial interest.

POPPY BLOOMS

THE first Cafe Poppy bistro is to open in June in Fulham, west London. David Cleave, who founded the chain last November, told Caterer he was on the verge of signing the lease for a90-seat outlet.

A site for a second outlet is also expected to be signed shortly. Over the next five years Mr Cleave hopes to open seven Cafe Poppy bistros servingThai-influenced French food.