Changes set to help South Cambridgeshire’s street traders

A council policy has been updated to support the growth of street traders such as food vans, flower stalls and cake vans.

The new South Cambridgeshire District Council policy brings into force two key changes – a three-month trial for new premises and new ad hoc trading consent.

The first change allows traders to assess suitability or viability of a new location before committing to an annual consent and the second enables trading for up to four times a year in one location to meet business needs or assess viability.

The existing fair approach to street trading continues across the district while ensuring it complements local shops.

Cllr Natalie Warren-Green, lead cabinet member for licensing, said: “Through thoughtful policies we hope to empower street traders to flourish which in turn brings to life our neighbourhoods as well as providing opportunity to local entrepreneurs.”

The updated policy is designed to be sensitive to residents, consider business needs and provide diversity and consumer choice. The updates were discussed by the council’s licensing committee on 18 September.