ICE cream van operators who feared their livelihoods were in jeopardy when plans to increase fees by 4,000 per cent broke cover - before a backlash prompted a U-turn - have praised licensing bosses for listening.
Next week, ruling cabinet members will discuss the council’s revised street trading policy which will feature ‘significant reductions’ in fees and charges for traders across the borough.
The town’s contingent of ice cream sellers battled against initial plans for a 400-metre no-go zone around schools, as well as plans to dramatically hike their trading fees.
Following discussions this was revised to 200 metres, but a 100-metre zone was agreed and approved, while the current £250-a-year fee - which was first mooted to grow to £14,560 - has also been retained.
Husband and wife duo Les and Sarah Green, who have collectively clocked up more than 50 years in the industry, thanked people for their support.
“We’re thrilled that we’re at this stage after so many worrying times - businesses would have been put in jeopardy if that distance doubled or the £250 rose to what was initially put to us,” Sarah told the Chronicle.
“We’ve had a lot of support but this is excellent news and we’re happy that the licensing team listened to our thoughts.”
Annual fees for static pitches have been significantly reduced, with fees outside the town centre for food traders dropping to £600 and non-food traders to £400.
Occasional trading fees have also been streamlined, with food trading at £55 per day and non-food at £35 per day.
To support start-ups and small businesses, quarterly payment plans will be available for certain consents, easing financial pressures for traders.
A cabinet report said: “Due to a strong lobby from street traders with concerns for levels of fees, an executive decision was taken by the council leader to undertake a ‘root and stem’ review to ensure that they were reasonable and affordable.
“No amendments have been made to the fee for street trading consent for mobile traders, such as ice cream vendors.
“Mobile traders are itinerant, moving from position to position, remaining stationary for no longer than 20 minutes to attract customers and thereafter only long enough to serve customers present.
“In the borough, the fee for annual mobile trading consent is maintained at £250.”
The revised policy, including the updated fees and charges, is set to be formally approved at a full council meeting in February, with the new regulations coming into effect from April 1.
Coun Robin Franklin, cabinet spokesperson for regeneration and culture, added: “Barnsley’s traders are at the heart of our community, and their feedback has been invaluable in shaping this policy.
“We’re proud to introduce changes that not only reduce financial costs but also streamline processes and encourage new businesses.
“These updates will ensure our high streets and town centres remain vibrant and welcoming places for everyone.”
