Calls for compromise after Anglesey businesses told to stop on-street trading despite claims it aids social distancing

A 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 himself and nearby Tredici butchers were affected.

“Tredici have had a display outside of their shop for years and we’ve had the van selling food for around six weeks without receiving any complaints,” said Mr Owen.

“The townsfolk seemed to have no problems at all.

“The van gave us a focal point and brought fewer people into the shop and prevented the spread of Coronavirus by keeping more people outdoors, so in our eyes it was safer for both staff and employees.

“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 for us and what wasn’t 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.

“We are in unprecedented times and everything possible needs to be done to help these businesses to serve the local community and generate some income.

“Over the years, advertising boards and products on the street in Beaumaris has 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.”

In response, Anglesey Council’s Head of Highways said that 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: “Balancing the needs to the business community and upholding current laws there to protect the safety of residents and motorists using our high streets is not always easy or straightforward.

“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.”

Interim Head of Regulation and Economic Development, Christian Branch, added: “We are looking into ways of supporting local businesses recover from the pandemic as lockdown is eased.

“We want to work with businesses, as well as town and community council to ensure their recovery as quickly as possible.

“We look forward to further guidance from Welsh Government on the future use of public spaces to support local business, and will also consider best practice from other areas.”

By Gareth Williams – Local Democracy Reporter