Plans put forward for new street trader regulations across the Borough

Street trading could soon be possible in redeveloped areas across the Stockton-on-Tees Borough after plans to replace "outdated" regulations were agreed.

The new proposed street trading resolution from Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council was agreed at a meeting of the Council's Cabinet on Thursday (January 18).

And under the new rules, the whole Borough would become a 'consent' area, where prior permissions are required for street traders.

Currently, the Council has a restrictive list of consent or prohibited streets, but no control in areas designated as neither.  

The proposals come after a period of consultation, where existing traders and potential traders were amongst those asked to give their views.

Councillor Norma Stephenson, the Council's Cabinet Member for Access, Communities and Community Safety, said: "This new street trading resolution is a welcome addition and much more flexible than the outdated regulations currently in place.

"Under the new regulations, street trading can be considered in redeveloped areas where it was previously prohibited, which is a really positive step as traders will soon be able to take advantage of our regenerated areas.

"Making the Borough a consent area will help ensure there is a vibrant local economy, but also give us more powers to deal with complaints. Plus, the Council can add other reasonable conditions, which will help ensure street traders meet local needs.

"There are also a number of other benefits to the new resolution, including being able to attract higher-quality street trading concessions, which further strengthens the development of town centres and of course fits in with our 'Powering Our Future' work to improve outcomes for residents across the Borough."

The next step for the street trading proposals is for it to be considered at a full Council meeting on January 24.

If the plans are agreed, it is proposed the new regulations will be in effect after March 1.

For Council news direct to your inbox sign up to our My Council Newsletter.