BUSINESSES in a Walsall town centre street “could go bankrupt” if action is taken against them over alterations made to their buildings, traders have warned.

Ten businesses in Bradford Street have received a letter from Walsall Council, claiming that they have carried out work to their properties – which are listed buildings – without acquiring the proper consent.

The authority adds that they have no formal record of permission for works at the properties and adds that the businesses will be liable for enforcement action.

It means the businesses may have to pay for costly remediation work – and the letter warns that they could face a more than £20,000 fine if the enforcement notice is not complied with.

Suky Samra, spokesperson for the Bradford Street Traders Association, said the letter “came out of the blue” and did not relate to recent work. He also claimed that businesses had the relevant consents.

Mr Samra said: “We will not take this lying down. This could bankrupt businesses, who have always been loyal to the town. We are asking the current administration to ensure that common sense prevails.”

Wadsworth and Co Estate Agents was one of the businesses that received the letter.

John Wadsworth said: “They have no idea what they are doing to businesses like ours. Walsall already has one of the worst rates of empty shops in the country and this will make matters worse. I’m even thinking of selling up and getting out of [the building].”

But David Elsworthy, head of planning and building control at Walsall Council, said officers had identified the installation of UPVC windows, signage, roller shutters, satellite dishes and “inappropriate paint” in the Bradford Street area. He said carrying out these works to the properties without listed buildings consent was an offence.

Mr Elsworthy added: “The council is willing to discuss these matters with the property owners but the council cannot hold back indefinitely in dealing with these offences.”

Owners are now being urged to submit applications for consent, which will be considered by the planning committee next month.

If enforcement notices are served, Mr Elsworthy said there would be a compliance period for businesses to “put right” the work before prosecution is taken.