Birmingham's Bullring shopping centre is set to welcome a new retail offering on Link Street, following the closure of a long-standing convenience store last summer. Plans have been formally submitted to Birmingham City Council for a licensing application to open a Simply Local convenience store at Unit 12, Link Street.
Filling a Retail Void in a Key Location
The proposed store would occupy the unit previously home to Newspoint, which served the area for more than two decades before closing its doors. This space has remained largely vacant since, creating a gap in essential retail services for the thousands of daily commuters and visitors who traverse this major pedestrian thoroughfare.
Link Street serves as a critical connection between Birmingham New Street Station, Grand Central, and the Bullring shopping centre itself. The arrival of a new convenience store at this location would provide a welcome amenity for those passing through, offering quick access to everyday essentials.
What the New Store Would Offer
Simply Local is already established in Birmingham city centre with a branch on Stephenson Street. The chain typically stocks a comprehensive range of goods designed for convenience, including fresh fruit, groceries, snacks, hot food, and chilled drinks.
Based on the existing branch's offerings, the new Link Street store could potentially feature popular amenities such as a Costa Coffee machine, F'real milkshakes, Skwishee slushies, a cash point, and lottery ticket sales. This would position it as a multifaceted stop for commuters seeking refreshments, quick meals, or last-minute purchases.
Licensing Process and Public Consultation
The licensing application was formally submitted to Birmingham City Council on Monday, January 19, 2026. A notice has been displayed at the site, marking the beginning of the official process.
As part of standard procedure, members of the public can view the full application details on the Birmingham City Council website. Nearby residents and local businesses are also invited to submit their representations to the council during the consultation period, allowing the community to have its say on the proposed development.
A Sign of Evolving City Centre Retail
The move to establish a new convenience store in this prime location reflects the ongoing adaptation of Birmingham's city centre retail landscape. Convenience stores are increasingly recognised for their vital role in serving the fast-paced needs of urban commuters, workers, and tourists, providing accessible services outside of traditional supermarket hours.
The potential opening of Simply Local on Link Street represents positive news for the area, promising to reactivate a prominent retail unit and restore a valuable service to one of the city's busiest pedestrian routes. Further updates on the licensing decision and subsequent opening plans are anticipated in the coming weeks and months.
