Established stallholders have reacted with “absolute opposition” to plans for a “radical rethink” of street trading in B&NES.

The Council said markets can add vibrancy and help businesses grow – but some see stallholders as “untidy, unregulated” and with an unfair advantage over retailers and restaurants.

With reports of some individuals selling off their permits and an inconsistent approach to enforcement, the authority is reviewing its policies. It has also touted ideas including making markets weekly or rotating stallholders – but established traders fear the changes will put them out of business.

A report to July 11th’s Licensing Committee meeting says: “It has been suggested that the time is right for a radical re-think about the authority’s approach to street trading, perhaps moving traders from a dispersed model where traders trade daily to a more ‘traditional street market’ where traders trade once or twice a week.”

The consultation also asked for suggestions for new locations for street markets. Responses included Kingsmead Square, Moorland Road, Green Street, Abbey Green and Chew Magna High Street. If approved, the council will assess applications on criteria such as whether the stall is a public safety or a public order risk, or is likely to cause a nuisance.