BUILDERS are about to start transforming a former West Oxford pub plastered with flyposters into a restaurant.

The White House, in Botley Road, has been boarded up since it closed last year and is being turned into Zaytoon, offering Middle Eastern cuisine.

The White House was built in 1750 and was once the former toll house entrance to the city.

Residents were dismayed when the pub closed last year, and Jericho and Osney city councillor Susanna Pressel said: "I think it will be a good thing for the Botley Road area.

"The new restaurant will face stiff competition from the Oxford Castle site, but good luck to them."

The premises has been purchased by Oxford-based Solidaire Group Ltd, which is going to transform the interior and exterior of the building.

Restaurateur Mounder Khouri flew in from Spain when he heard of the chance to obtain a good-sized property with car parking and a garden in the city centre.

Mr Khouri, 45, said: "I am very excited to be helping to set up a restaurant in Oxford.

"I love the city's history and culture and I think there is a big gap in the market for quality Middle Eastern food.

"My dishes will be freshly cooked and extremely varied, with meat and healthy vegetarian specialities. There is more to Middle Eastern food than people think.

"We aim to introduce people to good quality home cooked dishes that families all over the Middle East enjoy, as well as the mezze selection that people have come to love.

"I want to create an international atmosphere where people of all countries and cultures meet to enjoy fine food and wine."

Mr Khouri previously ran Askadinya, a similar establishment in Jerusalem, which became the haunt of leading academics, politicians, and journalists.

He has also opened a successful business of the same name in Barcelona.

The new Oxford restaurant aims to be organic, with products sourced as close to the city as possible.

Developers are also promising to make the most of the garden, which will include an ornate marquee.

There will also be a deli and more formal dining in the main restaurant, including private dining areas for small and large groups alike.

The Solidaire Group hopes to start building work next week and finish in the summer, with the new restaurant opening in the autumn.

Mr Khouri added: "We are looking forward to bringing a new concept to Oxford."