Issue - meetings

To consider a report by the Head of Planning and Public Protection (copy enclosed) updating members on progress with the review of the current street trading policy in Denbighshire.

RESOLVED that the report be noted and officers be authorised to continue work on the draft Street Trading Policy with a final version being submitted to the committee’s next meeting for consideration.

The Public Protection Business Manager (PPBM) submitted a report (previously circulated) updating members on progress with the review of the current Street Trading Policy in Denbighshire.

In 2015 the Licensing Committee authorised officers to review the existing street trading policy in order to address difficulties with the regime and suggest improvements to better regulate and support street trading within the county.  A draft policy was considered by the Licensing Committee in December 2016 and it was agreed that an initial consultation be undertaken with City, Town and Community Councils along with internal council departments, particularly in respect of the proposed system of temporary block consents and special events outlined in the draft policy, prior to public consultation.  Comments received as a result of that initial consultation had been included in the latest draft which was currently undergoing public consultation until 30 June 2017.  It was suggested that a final draft, incorporating responses received as a result of the public consultation, be presented to the next meeting of the committee.

Councillor Joan Butterfield highlighted the importance of a fit for purpose policy, particularly for the larger towns, and was pleased that the policy would be brought back to committee for ratification.  Whilst she did not recall the draft policy being submitted to Rhyl Town Council she would review their response and revisit the draft policy in response to the consultation.  Councillor Butterfield was particularly keen to review the proposed system of temporary block consents for street trading and suggested that a map be produced in that regard for clarity.  The PPBM encouraged engagements with City, Town and Community Councils and welcomed the opportunity to discuss the matter further.  Councillor Arwel Roberts did not recall the draft policy being submitted to Rhuddlan Town Council but advised that he would make enquiries.  In response to concerns raised by Councillor Roberts regarding the cost of road closures for community events it was established that it was not a matter for consideration under the street trading policy but could be an issue for scrutiny to consider.  Councillor Roberts agreed to submit a member proposal form to the Scrutiny Chairs and Vice Chair’s Group directly in that regard.  Councillor Huw Williams felt there would also be merit in consulting with Member Area Groups (MAGs) on the draft street trading policy.  The PPBM advised that following the consultation period a final policy would be drafted and he agreed to engage with MAGs prior to submission of the final version to committee.

RESOLVED that the report be noted and officers be authorised to continue work on the draft Street Trading Policy with a final version being submitted to the committee’s next meeting for consideration.