'No plan to reopen' former legend of the Halifax restaurant scene

Inn Cognito, on Winding Road, hosted thousands of celebrations and memorable meals during its 35 years.

It shut in 2018 and the building was put up for sale at the beginning of 2025.

According to supporting statements for a planning application for the building next door, the current plan is to turn the former restaurant into a vocational training centre.

"The applicant also owns the adjoining property, formerly named as Inn Cognito,” says the statement.

"There are no plans to reopen the restaurant, with the current proposal to open a vocational training centre.”

Planning permission has been granted for a change of use of the adjoining properties, at 6 and 7 Cross Street, from a retail unit with residential use above to eight apartments.

According to the planning officer's report, the pair of vacant historic stone-built buildings, opposite Halifax Bus Station, once housed a cobblers on the ground floor.

Approval has been given to convert and refurbish the buildings to create eight self-contained, one-bedroom apartments and a four-storey extension at the back, along with eight parking spaces.

The planning officer’s report says: “Through bolstering residential capacity in a highly sustainable location the proposal is considered to enhance the role and function of the town centre.

"The proposed development serves as a means to prevent further deterioration of 6 and 7 Cross Street, contributing to the revitalisation of the town centre.”

The flats are intended for young adults, including care leavers, who have are awaiting permanent social housing, adds the report.

"The proposed development seeks to address an identified gap in the availability of suitable move-on accommodation, whereby individuals with reduced support needs may otherwise remain within staffed accommodation due to a shortage of appropriate alternatives,” it says.

"In such regard, the proposal presents a clear public benefit.”