Traders' fears could prompt street policy change

A picture showing markets stalls and shops in York. There are some people sat on tables with other people walking around.

Proposed rules for street traders in York could be changed after a backlash from businesses who fear they could be forced off their pitches during the busy Christmas period.

Council officers have suggested amending its Street Trading Policy to make clear there will be no blanket suspension of pitches during events including the city's Christmas Market.

A report said traders were concerned because previous plans had been interpreted as giving blanket powers to suspend pitches for such events.

Under new proposals, traders would be given alternative spaces and informed of changes in advance.

York does not currently have a policy governing street trading and businesses operate based on guidance.

The council has said policies are required to provide the industry with greater transparency on issuing consents for pitches and operating terms.

York Christmas Market is one of the most popular events in the city

The draft policy previously stated there would be no guarantee traders could stay in their pitches during Make It York-run events, the biggest of which is the Christmas Market.

It sparked a backlash from traders who claimed it could see them forced off their pitches during the busiest periods of the year, which they rely on for income, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

Businesses have since called on the council to adopt a Street Trading Charter which includes calls for alternative pitches if they are moved off their regular spots.

The council report stated there was no mechanism to adopt the Charter but talks continued with traders and officers were open to including some proposals in the new rules.

The report said: “The street traders rely on the income from the Christmas period and other seasonal trade to remain viable.

“They are concerned that any movement of their pitch, particularly to a less favourable position, could result in a significant fall in income and devastate their business.

“Officers will continue to explore a way to resolve the apparent impasse.”

The proposals are set to go before councillors on Monday as part of an update on the draft policy.

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