Glasgow 2014: Commonwealth crackdown on street traders

Strict trading rules will be in place around Commonwealth Games venues

New regulations are being brought in to ban unauthorised street trading, advertising, marketing and busking around Commonwealth Games venues.

The Scottish government has launched a consultation on the controls, which would apply to 17 venues in and around Glasgow, Edinburgh and Carnoustie.

Those found to be breaking the rules could have merchandise seized or be fined up to £20,000 if convicted.

A special team of officers drawn from local councils will enforce the rules.

Announcing the consultation, Commonwealth Games Minister Shona Robison said: "Over 11 days next year, hundreds of thousands of residents, visitors and spectators will enjoy some world-class sport and experience a great Glasgow welcome.

"Regulating trading and advertising in the vicinity of the sports arenas ensures that we can protect the character and integrity of the Commonwealth Games and minimise disruption to local people or businesses."

'Control activity'

She added: "These regulations will allow Glasgow 2014 to control activity at an appropriate scale that allows the free flow of spectators and traffic to and from the games venues."

The venues on the east coast which the new regulations will cover are the Barry Buddon Shooting Centre, near Carnoustie, and the Royal Commonwealth Pool in Edinburgh.

In and around the host city, Glasgow, the following areas would also be covered:

• Cathkin Braes mountain bike trails

• Celtic Park and The Emirates Arena

• Road cycling route

• Time trial cycling route

• Marathon course

• Glasgow National Hockey Centre

• Hampden Park

• Ibrox Stadium

• Kelvingrove Lawn Bowls Centre

• Scottish Exhibition and Conference Centre, including Clyde Auditorium and The Hydro

• Scotstoun Sports Campus

• Strathclyde Country Park

• Tollcross International Swimming Centre

The rules will also cover four event zones in the city, some of which will double as event venues. These are George Square, Merchant City, Glasgow Green and Kelvingrove Park.