Street trading should be 'exception rather than the rule' in Sidmouth, town council chair says

The chair of Sidmouth Town Council has put forward a "common-sense approach" to the district council's proposed street trading changes.

The policy changes would see street trading allowed in areas of Sidmouth where it is currently banned, as well as on Sidmouth Esplanade from 1 May to 1 September.

Chair of Sidmouth Town Council Cllr Chris Lockyear said: "East Devon District Council's proposal was discussed by Sidmouth Town Council at its meeting on 6 February where the council did not support the EDDC proposed full-scale lifting of current restrictions on street trading in Sidmouth.

"The town council are very sympathetic to the view that the bricks and mortar businesses who pay rates, and contribute to the town in other ways, should be supported.

"It is also aware of the challenges to high streets posed by online shopping and the changing nature of what brings people to town centres.

"Street trading can add to the diversity of what is on offer to both residents and visitors alike, but should be the exception rather than the rule.

"At the moment, there is pretty much a blanket ban on street trading other than during the Folk Festival.

"Our response to EDDC's consultation was to seek some flexibility that would allow limited street trading for a small number of streets and events, whilst maintaining what is cherished.

"Such a common sense approach will hopefully strike the right balance, bringing more footfall and enhancing the economic health of the town, whilst keeping Sidmouth's unique appeal."

Sidmouth Town Council recommended to EDDC that:

1. The Market Square, New Street, Old Fore Street, Church Street and The Esplanade (road only, including the turning circle at The Ham) should become 'consent streets' (that is, street trading permitted with EDDC consent) throughout the year which would potentially allow a street trading licence to be issued a few times a year.
2. The promenade along the seafront should retain existing restrictions: trading permitted during the Folk Festival only.
3. Only town council supported events should be considered by the licensing authority and no licence should be issued without the express agreement from the town council after being consulted on all details of the event, including a full list of prospective traders.
4. All other roads/streets should be removed from the list proposed by the district council as they were not considered to be suitable for street trading and applications would therefore not receive agreement from the town council.

To see the full list of areas that would be affected in Sidmouth, and to take part in the consultation, click here.