Plans for the Diddly Squat restaurant had been rejected by councilors over concerns it would be ‘out of step’ with the local Cotswolds Area of ​​Outstanding Natural Beauty. But Mr Clarkson said last month a restaurant at Diddly Squat Farm – which is the focus of TV show Clarkson’s farm – was open for bookings. West Oxford District Council said it is now investigating the restaurant in Chipping Norton in Oxfordshire. “The council has been informed of the opening of the restaurant at Diddly Squat Farm,” a spokesman said. “As part of our standard operating procedure, we review the operation to ensure it complies with local and national legislation and planning policies, as well as licensing and food hygiene regulations,” the spokesperson added. The council spokesman added that they could not comment on “any ongoing investigations”. Mr Clarkson lost his bid to expand his Diddly Squat farm with his own restaurant in January, with councilors voting down plans for a 60-seat restaurant. Jeremy Clarkson said he was ‘thrilled’ to announce Diddly Squat was open for bookings last month (Getty Images) The council’s planning officer, Joan Desmond, said at the time: “Due to its design, scale, location and nature of use within the Cotswolds Area of ​​Outstanding Natural Beauty, the proposed development would have a visually intrusive and detrimental impact on the rural character, scenic beauty and tranquility of the area.” But the former Top Gear star later told reporters that the restaurant would “open anyway” in a different barn on the site under a “nice little window”, claiming that this way did not require the council’s permission. He also tweeted: “Excited to announce that you now have the opportunity to taste the amazing food we grow and grow on my farm at the brand new (but quite rustic) Diddly Squat Restaurant.” Menu items are all locally sourced, with snacks such as sticky beef croquettes with aioli and pickled chilli, and highlights such as roast beef with vegetables. Diddly Squat Farm has been approached for comment by The Independent. Additional reports from agencies