STAFF at Heathcote’s restaurant at the Albert Halls are facing redundancy as lockdown measures take their toll.

Chef Paul Heathcote, who opened The Northern in July last year, said the “difficult” decision had been made as it was unable to trade in any form as the Albert Halls remained closed, with no prospect of theatre productions taking place until 2021.

He stressed the restaurant is not closing, just effectively being ‘mothballed’ until it can reopen next year ­- with the staff being offered the jobs first.

All contracted and regular hours staff ­- a core team of 16 ­- have now been informed of the move and given redundancy notices.

Mr Heathcote, who is chef director at The Northern, said: "This has been a really difficult decision as we have built a great team and a loyal following.

“Sadly with the prospect of not being able to open the doors for the foreseeable future, and no visibility on further Government support, it means that we have no option but to let these wonderful people find alternative employment.

“I have been keeping in touch with the team twice a week with wellbeing meetings so this has been incredibly tough.

“We know that the whole of hospitality has this dilemma, and large venues are the worst affected.

“The Northern will remain closed until we can reopen safely at some point next year – and all the team will be offered employment first before we look elsewhere.

“I have been in regular contact with Bolton Council, and understand that pressures on its finances mean it is not in a position to provide direct financial support on an indefinite basis.

“I would like take the opportunity to thank all my team for their valued contribution and to everyone who has supported the restaurant.”

Leader of Bolton Council Cllr David Greenhalgh said: “We understand the difficult decision the Northern has had to take to temporarily close its doors and we are very sorry that staff have been made redundant.

“The hospitality sector has been badly hit by the pandemic and The Northern has been left in a really difficult position. As a council, we will do everything we can to support the restaurant with reopening as soon as they feel able to.”