Sandwell Reform UK councillor Ritchie Massey has re-submitted a planning application for a cafe he opened two years ago without permission. Massey's Cafe, located in Fountain Lane, Oldbury, began operating at the end of 2024 without prior approval from Sandwell Council's planning department.
Background of the cafe
The cafe was converted from a former clothes recycling centre. Massey, who was appointed cabinet member for adult services, health and wellbeing at Sandwell Council last month, initially applied for retrospective planning permission in February 2025. However, the plans were rejected by May 2025. Now, 12 months later, he has applied again.
The new application states: “The premises operate as a small-scale café serving hot and cold food and drinks, primarily for consumption on the premises. The unit comprises a dining area, kitchen and staff toilet facilities. The proposal includes internal alterations, installation of kitchen equipment and ventilation/extraction equipment associated with the café use. The café is a daytime operation with the majority of customers dining on-site. The proposal provides a local facility for workers within the employment area and supports local employment.”
Reasons for initial rejection
The council’s planners rejected the 2025 application, citing insufficient justification for not locating the cafe in a preferred town centre site. They also noted a lack of adequate parking spaces. The planners’ report said: “Given the proximity of Oldbury town centre and the vacancy and variety of units within, I find there is insufficient justification to support the use in this location. Additionally, there is no evidence to demonstrate that what provision is available within Oldbury town centre would not be undermined by the retention of the café use.”
Political context
Last month, Reform UK took control of Sandwell Council in a historic election win, ending Labour's dominance since 1979. Reform won 41 seats, including Massey, who was elected in Rowley with the second-highest votes as the party secured all three seats in the ward.
Massey's cafe remains open despite the previous rejection. The outcome of the new application will be decided by Sandwell Council's planning committee.
