Mobile sandwich traders in Reading could face a new annual charge of £861, as Reading Borough Council considers a new report.
Previously, sandwich traders have not been licensed because there were only a few traders within the borough.
The Council believes there are now eight more sandwich round vehicles operating within the borough, and that traders ‘may not be operating legally in regards to street trading law.’
The new license fee is in line with street trading consents for ice cream vans.
The report said: “The council has concerns that these traders may not be operating legally in regards to street trading law, food regulations and general food hygiene standards.
“It is envisaged that enforcement action may have to be taken against traders who choose not to apply for a consent and therefore continue to work illegally.”
In January this year, a consultation was held within the area gauging views on licensing and fees to cover mobile sandwich round traders.
One sandwich trader in the area told getreading: “I think at a time when central government is planning to give small business 100% relief on business rates, you have to wonder why a council would then look at imposing an additional licence fee. I would also like to know what they actually do with the money.”
A meeting with the licensing sub-committee will go ahead today, to consider approval of the special conditions to permit Mobile Sandwich Round street traders to be licensed.
No comments yet