Zizzi Salisbury to reopen after novichok poisoning

The restaurant closed in March after Sergei and Yulia Skripal fell ill, hours after eating at the site.

Zizzi was one of several areas cordoned off after traces​​ of the nerve agent novichok were found.

Now the restaurant is reopening after being declared safe by the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA).

It has undergone a complete refurbishment, with entirely new furnishings and a repainted frontage.

Many of the original 24 staff, including the head chef and restaurant manager, are returning to work after the eight month closure.

When the restaurant reopens on 6 November diners will be invited to pay whatever they feel their food is worth, with all proceeds donated to local charities.

“We are so pleased Zizzi is reopening in time for the build up to Christmas,” says Alistair Cunningham, chair of the South Wiltshire recovery coordinating group.

“For Salisbury it is a significant step forward and shows the city centre has returned to normal and has moved on from the events of this year.

“Work continues to restore visitor confidence and provide support to local traders and businesses. The reopening of Zizzi is at the start of a programme of events and initiatives to promote Christmas in Salisbury and encourage shoppers, visitors and tourists to come to the city and enjoy all it has to offer.”