Town Hall: Place FAQ's

In order to provide potential tenants / occupiers and other interested stakeholders with an overview of Town Hall Place (THP) and the trading opportunity for independent businesses, the following answers to a variety of key questions should help.  

What is Town Hall Place?

Town Hall Place consists of seven small  ‘lock up’ shop units, ranging in size from circa 150 sqft. to circa 350 sqft. It will provide fantastic trading opportunities in the heart of Tamworth Town Centre for independent business to trade and operate from.

Where is Town Hall Place?

The seven units are located to the rear of the Town Hall, close to the new entrance to Tamworth Castle and its grounds, as well as being beside the entrance to Ankerside Shopping Centre, see all plans on the Council website, Planning Application Search (tamworth.gov.uk) using application number: 0414/2022. Six of the units will face onto the new square, and one unit will front onto George Street. 

Who owns Town Hall Place?

Town Hall Place is being built by and will be operated by Tamworth Borough Council as landlords.

How big are the units?

There are seven units, ranging in size from 138 - 368 sqft. Most are 190 - 260 sqft.

What does each unit include?

Every unit will be finished and ready for occupation. Walls will be plastered and painted (neutral colour). Floors will also be finished and ambient lighting provided. There will be electric power to every unit, glazed doors and windows (where provided), Wi-Fi enabled, rear access for deliveries, shared waste, rubbish and staff toilets. 

Can I decorate the units to suit my business?

Yes, businesses can decorate and fit out / furnish the units to suit their business style. Any structural changes will need to be approved in advance of commencement. All changes to the colour and condition of the building will need to be reinstated to the original condition prior to the end of the letting period.

Will I be able to use my own brand identity?

Yes, the Council is currently exploring the most effective and efficient approach to signage at Town Hall Place. The aim is to implement a system that allows tenant signage to be easily updated, while also maintaining a cohesive and high quality visual identity for the space. Further details on the signage will be shared in due course as plans are finalised. 

What types of businesses are able to trade in Town Hall Place?

The Council is looking for independent small businesses (micro SME’s or sole traders). There are no specific restrictions on the types of businesses, however the Council is keen to attract and support businesses that will expand the choice  and appeal of Tamworth town centre, be in line with customer demand (avoiding duplication with existing offers).  Businesses need to be either locally or regionally based. Interested businesses will go through an objective selection process to ensure they are right for Tamworth and the customer needs.

When will the units be available?

Units will be available for letting and business occupation at the end of the September 2025.

What are the required trading hours and are these mandatory?

Businesses will be expected to trade a minimum of 5 days a week, including Saturdays, from 10.00 to 17.00.

What are the licence terms and conditions?

The Council has adopted a flexible, easy-in/easy-out monthly licence model for units at Town Hall Place. Each unit will be offered on a monthly licence basis, with an initial minimum term of six months. This approach is designed to support traders by providing accessible space on the high street without locking them into long-term leases, particularly important for businesses still testing the market or building a customer base. 

Businesses may choose to renew their licence beyond the initial term, subject to agreement. Weekly rents may be reviewed and adjusted at the point of renewal to reflect inflation or other relevant changes. Early exit from the licence will be permitted without penalty, provided all rent payments are up to date and any necessary remedial works to the unit have been completed. 

How do I register my interest in a unit?

Simply complete the initial registration of interest form, THP Interest Form. There are a few basic questions for you to complete. The THP team will then be in touch to arrange a meeting to discuss your business and your ambition to trade at THP.

How much will it cost to trade in Town Hall Place?

The THP units are available for a variety of weekly rental amounts dependent on the size of the unit. Smaller units start at £150 per week and the larger units start at £250 per week. The units are expected to benefit from the small business rates relief scheme. This will need confirmation prior to opening. There is a small weekly additional charge to cover utilities, waste and cleaning of communal areas. This will be circa £25 per week per unit. There will also be the requirement for a deposit payment equivalent to one month’s rent. This will be refunded subject to all payments being up to date, no damage outstanding to the units and the units restored to their condition when you first started trading.

What categories will be suitable for Town Hall Place?

The table below provides an indication of the wide range of potential businesses; it is not deemed to be an exhaustive listing. The two larger units may be more suitable to a hospitality or food and beverage business.

In keeping with the quality of the new units, and the location in the town centre, the council is looking for specialist independent businesses, offering quality products, services and hospitality goods / products. 

How will Town Hall Place be promoted to the Tamworth customers?

The Council are looking for businesses that are active self-promoters, to work independently or as a group with other THP occupiers. The Council will also promote the operators as part of the Visit Tamworth Website and other Council news / promotion channels. Town Hall Place benefits from excellent passing footfall and has potential for traders to expand their activity outside of the units, with all necessary permissions and being ‘good neighbour‘. 

When can I go to see the units?

Once you have completed the preliminary registration of interest (THP Interest Form) you will be contacted to arrange a site visit and more detailed business assessment. You are also able to look through the hoardings to see how the units are taking shape.

How do I keep up to date with the availability of units in THP?

Simply complete the registration of interest form (THP Interest Form) and the THP will keep you up to speed on any developments.