We are working to identify opportunities that could support the long-term improvement of Burntwood town centre.
As part of this work, we commissioned a detailed study to better understand Burntwood's strengths, challenges and future opportunities. The findings are helping to shape future discussions about how the town centre can evolve and where investment could have the greatest impact.
The work forms part of the council's wider commitment to supporting thriving town centres, encouraging investment and creating places where people want to live, work and spend time.
Why is this work needed?
Burntwood is one of the largest settlements in Lichfield District and serves a growing population.
Like many town centres across the country, Burntwood faces challenges linked to changing shopping habits, online retail and changing expectations of town centre spaces. At the same time, the town has many strengths, including strong communities, a growing population, good transport connections and access to valuable green spaces.
We want to ensure Burntwood is well positioned to respond to these changes and take advantage of future opportunities.
What work has been completed?
In 2025, we commissioned specialist consultants to undertake a detailed assessment of Burntwood.
This work examined:
- The role of Burntwood within the district.
- The performance of the town centre.
- Future development and investment opportunities.
- Public spaces and connectivity.
- Housing, leisure and employment needs.
- Opportunities to support long-term economic growth.
The findings were considered by Cabinet in May 2026, which agreed that further work should continue, particularly around opportunities to strengthen Sankey's Corner and the wider town centre.
The council's role
The council's role is to help create the conditions for future investment and improvement.
While the council does not own much of Burntwood town centre, it can work with partners, businesses, landowners and other organisations to identify opportunities, support funding bids, coordinate investment and help bring forward projects where appropriate.
This work is focused on creating a clear direction for the future of the town centre and ensuring opportunities are not missed as they arise.
Current areas of focus
Current discussions are exploring opportunities to:
- Support a stronger and more vibrant town centre.
- Improve public spaces and the overall appearance of key areas.
- Encourage future investment and business confidence.
- Strengthen links between destinations across the town.
- Improve the experience for residents and visitors.
- Support the long-term future of Sankey's Corner.
Any future projects would be subject to further development, funding availability and engagement with relevant stakeholders.
What happens next?
We will continue to work with partners to explore practical opportunities that could help strengthen Burntwood town centre over the coming years.
This is long-term work and no specific development proposals have been approved at this stage. However, the study provides a valuable evidence base that can help inform future investment decisions and support discussions with landowners, businesses and funding bodies.
Further updates will be provided as work progresses. To read more, please head to our dedicated development website: