Council orders traders to move
A WELSH council has been urged to compromise during tough economic times after traders were told to stop selling goods on the street despite claims it was helping to maintain social distancing.
One deli had set up a van to sell on-street food to avoid shoppers having to enter their shop, while a nearby butcher had a display of its items on the pavement along Beaumaris’ Castle Street. But, according to Anglesey council, complaints were received from members of the public, with officers telling both businesses they were blocking the pavement and causing a safety hazard.
Dave Owen, who runs Mercado by the Midland, a Mediterranean-style deli, said that both he and nearby Tredici butchers were affected.
“I’d taken staff off furlough to operate the van, but while I want to work within the guidelines, it was never made clear for us what was acceptable and we’ve been left in the dark really.”
Local councillor and economic development chief Carwyn Jones said the decision has been widely condemned on social media, urging compromise on both sides in order to find a resolution.
Cllr Jones said: “These are fantastic businesses and I am a customer and supporter of both. Over the years, advertising boards and products on the street in Beaumaris have been a very sensitive matter and many have strong views, while I also appreciate that the highways department are in a difficult position if they do receive complaints, and hopefully a compromise can be found here.
“What is clear, however, is that we are currently in the coronavirus lockdown and the street is virtually empty.
“Having as much leeway and compromise as possible is needed to help local traders and the fantastic service they provide, having been a true lifeline to many during this pandemic.”
Anglesey council’s head of highways said the authority had tried to deal with the issues as sensitively as possible, but also had a legal responsibility to all highway users, including those with limited mobility.
Huw Percy went on to say: “We have received a number of complaints regarding issues around trading practices on Beaumaris High Street and have tried to work with local businesses by offering advice and the use of White Lion Square as a more suitable location where they can continue to trade.”