West Bromwich town centre could soon see a new outdoor food court, as a planning application has been submitted to Sandwell Council. The proposal seeks temporary permission for three years to transform a vacant site on West Bromwich High Street into a vibrant food hub with space for 14 trailers.
The site, formerly occupied by the Princess Parade buildings, has been sealed off and empty since the structures were demolished in 2018. The demolition was approved by Sandwell Council after the buildings had sat vacant for several years, leaving a prominent gap in the town's retail landscape.
What the plans include
According to the application, the outdoor food court would feature 14 vendors offering cuisine from around the world, alongside 44 parking spaces. The area is also earmarked to function as a car park during the day, catering to visitors and workers in the town centre.
The application hints at a longer-term vision for the site, with flats and new shops potentially being developed once the temporary permission expires. This suggests the food court is seen as an interim use to bring life back to the site while more permanent plans are finalised.
Developer's statement
A statement included with the application explains the rationale behind the scheme: “This application is for temporary permission for three years, after which the main application for residential and retail units will hopefully be developed.”
“This development will ensure that the proposed retail uses integrate effectively with the surrounding context and contribute positively to the local economy.”
“The temporary scheme has been developed with an understanding that the site will provide various street food outlets providing cuisine from around the world.”
Parking and layout
To make the most of the site's footprint, the design incorporates echelon parking, which allows for efficient use of space for both vehicles and pedestrian access. The statement notes: “To maximise the space within the confines of the site, echelon parking has been adopted allowing space for parking, pedestrian access and serving food.”
The site will provide parking for up to 44 cars and a number of motorcycles. Fourteen temporary retail trailers are proposed, with the expectation that most visitors will arrive in the evening and at night for food. During the day, the site will primarily serve as a car park.
Context and next steps
This application comes as Sandwell Council continues to push for regeneration in West Bromwich. The town centre has faced challenges in recent years, with retail vacancies and the loss of key anchor stores. A food court could help attract footfall and create a lively evening economy.
The proposal is now under review by Sandwell Council's planning department. Local residents and businesses will have the opportunity to comment before a decision is made. If approved, the food court could open within months, bringing a taste of global cuisine to the heart of the Black Country.
