Review of street traders policy planned in Walsall town centre
Street traders operating across Walsall could see their annual fees rise in an overhaul of existing procedures.
Walsall Council is consulting on adopting a new street trading policy which will set out all requirements that businesses, such as fast food and ice cream vans, are expected to meet to ensure public safety.
Bosses say no proposed new fees and charges have been put forward at this stage and will only be considered on a later day.
But a report to members of the licensing committee said the new policy would have an impact on existing trade.
There are a range of current annual fees and charges in place for street traders to operate across the borough with the most expensive being £2,820 in certain locations in the town centre.
In February, existing traders were written to by the authority and asked to give feedback on what they would like to see in the new policy but the council received no responses.
Councillor Adrian Andrew, portfolio holder for economy and regeneration, said: “The intention is for Walsall Council to review and publicly consult on its ‘new’ Street Trading Policy, listen to the views of all those who respond and consider any suggested changes or amendments carefully.
“Street traders play a very important part in contributing to a vibrant economy and providing choice. We want to get this right for Walsall and other district centres.
“Therefore, before any final policy is adopted, a review of fees and charges will be undertaken once this review and consultation is completed.
“This will identify as precisely as possible the cost of administering the new Street Trading policy.
“We anticipate that the cost to the applicant will be more accurate at this point, rather than trying to anticipate the cost in advance and prior to implementation of any new policy.”
In the section headed ‘resource considerations – financial’, the report said: “The policy will have an impact on existing trade.
“This may result in representations or objections from the trade, members of the public or responsible authorities.
“As part of the process the licensing authority will be looking at reviewing the fees for street trading.”
