Fresh proposals have been formally lodged to completely overhaul the premises of a former zero-rated cafe and takeaway in Sutton Coldfield, with ambitious plans to establish a brand new launderette and dry cleaning business on the site. This significant redevelopment aims to thoroughly cleanse the unit's troubled reputation following a highly critical environmental health inspection.
From Sweet Treats to Hygiene Failures
The Sutton Sweet Centre originally opened in Hill Village Road, Mere Green, during May 2024, occupying a premises that was previously a chip shop. The venture sought to capitalise on the growing market for Indian confectionery and street food offerings in north Birmingham. However, the business encountered severe difficulties shortly after launching when Birmingham City Council environmental health officers conducted an inspection.
The inspection resulted in the devastating zero food hygiene rating, with inspectors documenting more than sixty separate faults throughout the establishment. The most concerning finding highlighted that staff demonstrated a complete absence of understanding regarding fundamental food hygiene principles. Multiple serious issues were identified across various aspects of the operation.
Detailed Hygiene Shortcomings
The environmental health report revealed numerous specific problems that contributed to the damning assessment:
- General cleanliness of the premises fell well below acceptable standards
- Inadequate and unsafe food storage practices throughout the facility
- Insufficient handwashing facilities and poor staff hygiene practices
- Illegal disposal methods for commercial waste
- Dirty cleaning equipment left in food preparation areas
- Uncovered food items stored in both refrigerators and freezers
- Food stored in opened tins, creating risk of chemical contamination
- Overcrowded chest freezer operating at minus 9°C instead of required minus 18°C
Arjun Nijjar, representing the Sutton Sweet Centre, acknowledged the shortcomings, stating: "We take full responsibility for everything because it's our business at the end of the day." Following these difficulties, the venue was placed on the market for sale in November 2024.
Complete Business Transformation Proposed
The site now stands poised for a remarkable transformation, with Love Laundry and Dry Cleaning Limited submitting a formal planning application to change the use of the premises from a food outlet to a launderette and dry cleaning service. This represents a fundamental shift in the nature of business conducted at the location.
Employment and Operational Details
The proposed launderette development promises to generate valuable local employment opportunities, with plans to create six positions in total. This includes three full-time roles and three part-time positions, equivalent to approximately four-and-a-half full-time employment opportunities for the community.
If planning permission is granted, the new facility would operate according to the following schedule:
- Monday to Friday: 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM
- Saturday: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM
The planning application, registered under reference number 2025/06185/PA on January 13, represents a fresh start for the problematic site. This transformation from a food establishment with serious hygiene issues to a cleaning-focused business symbolizes a complete reversal of the premises' previous challenges, offering the local community both convenient services and new employment prospects in Mere Green.
