A DUDLEY landmark is set to be brought back to life as a bar and restaurant following a £900k facelift.

The double-fronted building at 23 Priory Street, which is recognised as a site of archaeological significance, is to be restored to its former glory with the reinstatement of a number of key architectural and heritage features.

The building, which was last open as Carver’s Cafe, was constructed around 1770 and was once occupied by Dudley Flint Glass works, the building was also the town’s first fire station.

The remains of the glass works lie beneath Stone Street Square and as part of the refurbishment the foundations will be exposed with lighting and viewable through a glass floor.

Councillor Judy Foster, Dudley cabinet member for regeneration, said: “I cannot stress enough the historical and archaeological importance of this building and its surrounding area and I am delighted that work on restoring this town centre gem is starting.

“Double good news comes with this project, because not only is the building being refurbished but we’ve also secured a tenant who will be opening a new bar and restaurant soon after the work is complete in the spring of next year.”

Work on the project includes restoration of the original double fire station doors, the rebuilding of a former hose drying tower, reinstatement of windows, stable roof, repairs to brickwork as well as a second storey conversion and extension to create a kitchen, office, toilet facilities and stores.

The project is funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) and Dudley Council.