Walsall Council is undertaking a public consultation to change the way streets in the borough are designated for street trading purposes.

Currently, streets in the borough are designated as one of three types - prohibited streets (no trading is allowed), licensed streets (where traders must obtain a licence from the council) and consent streets (where traders must obtain consent from the council, and trading of a mobile nature is envisaged).

New proposals would see all streets in the borough designated as 'consent streets', allowing traders, subject to a full application and consultation process, to apply for a licence to trade on any street. 

The consultation launched on Monday 22 July 2024, and it is hoped the changes outlined will support small businesses and entrepreneurs, enhance the vitality and diversity of the local economy and provide more choice and convenience for shoppers.  

Councillor Adrian Andrew, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Economic Growth and Regeneration, said, “We want to make sure that the people of Walsall are heard during this consultation.  

“We have proposed these changes in response to requests from prospective street traders, to support the economy and promote entrepreneurship. Following the changes, all applications will be subject to a full application and consultation process. 

“Concerns or complaints about street traders in the borough can be reported to the enforcement team.” 

The consultation will end on the Friday 30 August 2024 and can be accessed at walsall.gov.uk/streetredesignation.