First phase of work starts on Walsall shopping centre food court

Work has begun to transform a unit for Burger King to move into in a bid to kick-start wider plans for the food court. Bosses say further discussions are taking place with other interested retailers.

The fast-food chain today said it was thought the plans could create around 30 jobs, although an exact figure is yet to be confirmed.

The shopping centre, in Park Street, has never had a food court in its 35-year history.

Bosses have also revealed that busking will be introduced inside the shopping centre on Sundays to showcase local talent and help boost trade.

The Saddlers Sunday sets are due to launch on March 29, when performers will be able to take up a pitch outside Oliver Adams and a piano will also be situated inside the shopping centre for anyone to have a go.

Work to get the space ready for Burger King to move into is due to be completed by March 23 and the handover will then take place.

Shopping centre manager Angela Henderson said: "They are changing the unit back into a shell to get ready for the handover. Burger King will hopefully kick-start the plans for the food court.

"There's a lot of stuff happening behind the scenes and discussions are taking place with a lot of people."

Burger King became the 54th deal to be signed since owners Topland took over the shopping centre more than two years ago.

Speaking about the food court plans, director of Topland Steve Pope added: "Customers can take advantage of the total offer of convenient car parking, shopping and eating in one place in a safe and secure environment.

"The intention is to look after the loyal customer shopping base that the Saddlers Centre has and the addition of a food hub will appeal to existing shoppers but also the younger generation, who expect more food choice."

Ms Henderson said musicians were also being encouraged to come forward to perform at the shopping centre on Sundays in a new event being launched later this month.

She said: "As the centre is an extension of the local community we want to encourage local talent to come forward and we will be introducing Saddlers Sunday sets from March 29 to showcase local talent.

"The centre wants to engage with the local population and give shoppers other reasons to visit the centre and town centre."

She said a digital piano would be situated next to Argos and people will be invited to perform for shoppers.