Walsall Council has formally withdrawn a temporary stop notice that had forced the closure of a popular rooftop street food venue in the town centre. The Rooftop Food Court, located atop the George Street multi-storey car park, had been served the enforcement notice in October 2025 after opening without the necessary planning consent.
From Immediate Risk to Compliance
The council initially issued the notice to the venue's owner, stating the activities presented an 'immediate risk' to public safety. The large-scale operation, situated on the car park's fourth floor, featured street food from more than a dozen vendors operating from shipping containers. It also boasted an outdoor cinema, space for 400 vehicles, and seating for 350 people.
Following action from the leaseholder, the situation has now shifted. The authority confirmed the stop notice was withdrawn after the owner complied with its requirements. This development comes after retrospective planning applications were submitted in November 2025 by the leaseholder applicant, Easy Park, seeking to regularise the site's use.
Legal Wranglings and Calls for Support
The building's owner, UK Land and Homes, revealed it had launched legal proceedings against the council over the enforcement action. A spokesperson for the company stated they were prepared to drop the court case at their own expense if the council acted "reasonably and proportionately".
They argued that all required safety reports had been supplied and a valid retrospective application was in progress. "There is no justifiable reason why we should not be permitted to reopen," the spokesperson said, emphasising that many local jobs depended on the decision. They expressed frustration, suggesting the council should support businesses investing in a 'declining town centre' rather than creating obstacles.
An Uncertain Reopening and Local Impact
With the stop notice now lifted, the company has signalled its desire to reopen the Rooftop Food Court. However, it is awaiting further communication from the council to avoid being 'shut down again'. The spokesperson highlighted the ongoing uncertainty, noting that over 60 vendors and staff, plus local subcontractors for security, cleaning, and waste management, were 'just on standby'.
A spokesperson for Walsall Council provided a concise statement: "Following the applicant’s compliance with the requirements of temporary stop notice served by the council, the notice has been formally withdrawn by the council. The local planning authority will continue to act to prevent unauthorised development in line with guidance and policies at this and any other site in the borough."
The future of the venue now hinges on the outcome of the retrospective planning application, leaving local businesses and food lovers in Walsall awaiting a final resolution.
