York Street Trading Policy May Be Revised Following Business Concerns

The proposed regulations for street traders in York might undergo modifications following objections from businesses concerned about potential displacement from their selling locations during the peak Christmas season. Officials from the council have put forward an amendment to the Street Trading Policy, aiming to clarify that there will be no universal suspension of pitches during events such as York’s Christmas Market. According to a report, traders expressed apprehension because earlier proposals had been understood to grant broad authority for suspending pitches during these types of events. The revised proposals stipulate that traders would receive alternative locations and be notified of any alterations ahead of time. Currently, York operates without a formal policy governing street trading, with businesses conducting their operations based on existing guidance. The council has stated that formal policies are necessary to enhance transparency within the industry regarding the issuance of consents for pitches and the terms of operation. Previously, the draft policy indicated that traders could not be guaranteed to retain their pitches during events managed by Make It York, with the Christmas Market being the most significant. This provision provoked strong opposition from traders, who asserted it could lead to their removal from pitches during the year’s busiest periods, on which they depend for their livelihood, as reported by the Local Democracy Reporting Service. Subsequently, businesses have urged the council to implement a Street Trading Charter, which advocates for the provision of alternative pitches should traders be relocated from their customary positions. The council’s report indicated that no formal mechanism existed for adopting the Charter; however, discussions with traders were ongoing, and officers were receptive to incorporating some of its suggestions into the forthcoming regulations. The report stated: “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.” These proposals are scheduled for presentation to councillors on Monday, forming part of an update concerning the draft policy.