An appeal has been lodged following the refusal of planning permission for a controversial rooftop street food venue in Walsall. The Rooftop Food Court, located on the fourth storey of the Asda car park in the town centre, was unanimously refused permission by Walsall Council's planning committee last week.
Fire Safety Concerns
During the meeting, committee members highlighted significant fire safety issues. Several exits at the George Street multi-storey car park were blocked with cable ties, a steel plate, and a roller shutter. Councillor Mike Bird, chairman of the planning committee and leader of the authority, stated: "One word: Grenfell."
Applicant's Response
Following the decision, applicant Mohammed Khalid criticised the refusal, claiming the committee was 'misled'. He argued that an agreed extension of time was not honoured and that the blocked fire exits were unrelated to the venue. The venue had been operating without permission for approximately 12 months before the council intervened.
Details of the Venue
The site featured around a dozen shipping containers offering street food, a silent outdoor cinema, and seating for 350 people. In October 2025, Walsall Council shut down the venue, citing immediate risks to public safety. The notice was lifted two months later after compliance, and a planning application was submitted to regularise the works.
Reasons for Refusal
Planning officers recommended refusal for multiple reasons, including the illegal attachment of the foul drainage system for fats and grease to the council's surface highway drain. A private drainage consultant described the workmanship as the 'worst they'd seen in 45 years'. Additionally, West Midlands Police attended the venue twice, once for a car meet that led to its closure.
Other concerns included crime, antisocial behaviour, the site's location in the Church Hill Conservation Area, and potential impact on neighbours' amenity. Mr Khalid stated he was unaware of the issues until recently and believed they could be resolved with more time.
Appeal Process
An appeal has now been lodged. Both Walsall Council and the applicant must submit evidence to a government planning inspector, who will make the final decision.
