A LONG-standing and popular Indian restaurant will close its doors later this month.

Aakash, on Bradford Road, Cleckheaton, shared the news in a Facebook post.

It said: “It is with great sadness that we announce the closing of this beautiful restaurant. (Aakash).”

The post added that the building is being sold and it will not operate as a restaurant under the new owners.

"Wonderful customers" were thanked for their support as well as the local community.

“We are still operating as normal until 20th of November 2022. Thank you for all your support for all of these years," the post added.

The restaurant confirmed it would not be opening at another site. 

Many people shared their sadness at the news, but also the happy times they spent there. 

The stunning building went under the hammer at an online auction at the end of October.

The listing described it as a “well-known and highly regarded banqueting hall and venue and added: “This magnificent Grade II-listed building stands on a plot which is close to one acre in size.

“The history of the building, known as the United Reformed Church, was in the past once the congregational church and it was built in 1857-9 by Lockwood and Mawson of Bradford.

“It is a fine example of classical architecture, features such as the front portico having Corinthian columns and vermiculated rusticated corners to the end walls and the interior boasts an absolutely stunning ceiling painted with fluffy clouds on a bright-blue sky where is where the restaurant derives its name ‘Aakash’ which means sky in Urdu.

“The main entrance leads to a huge dining hall with covers for 800 over the main hall and gallery at first-floor level which overlooks the main hall.

“There are two separate function halls on the lower ground floor which also contains the commercial kitchen and stores.

“Externally as we have mentioned the property stands on a large plot which houses parking with an undercroft to the rear with covered parking.

“The site may have development potential subject to permission, however the main building being Grade II-listed may be limited.”

“Please note that we are selling the building and site only, the business is not being transferred and the property is offered with vacant possession.

“Fixture and fittings if required may be available under a separate negotiation.”

The historic Victorian chapel was restored to its former glory in 2001 after being rescued by local businessman Mohammed Iqbal Tabassum.

In an interview with the Telegraph & Argus back in 2004, Mr Tabassum said: "When I first saw the building it was shocking.”

He added: “It was in a very bad state and I thought to myself someone needs to have the courage to bring this building back to life."

The old Providence Place congregational chapel, which at its peak used to hold 3,000 people, was in such a bad state of repair it was placed on the English heritage buildings at-risk register.

But 32 months after the major £1.75 million restoration project, the building was open for business.

However, it hit problems in 2006, when Mr Tabassum was declared bankrupt and the restaurant was repossessed.

It then re-opened in 2007 after it was bought by Manchester property tycoon Dr Quasim Abbasali.

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