THE OFFICIAL opening of celebrity chef Jamie Oliver’s first Italian restaurant in Hertfordshire appears to have been delayed as construction continues in St Albans.

It was hoped that Jamie’s Italian eatery would be open later this year. However building work is continuing at the former Bell Public House, which is being transformed into a restaurant in The Maltings.

A spokesman for Jamie Oliver said while there is, “no solid date yet” for the opening, one should be available by mid-December depending on progress of the development.

The famous chef received consent from St Albans district council to demolish a conservatory at the listed Bell Hotel, 22 Chequer Street, along with a change of use from a pub to a restaurant, and a premises licence.